New poultry science and health professorship

The new professor will conduct research in avian disease and poultry health enhancement.

"This position will bring a researcher of national and international acclaim to UGA to compliment and strengthen our poultry research programmes," said UGA CAES Dean J Scott Angle.

Georgia is the number one poultry producing state in the US. Poultry represents more than half of the state's agricultural income, employs more than 100,000 people and contributes more than $13 billion annually to the state's economy.

The endowed research position is being funded through a bequest from the late founder of Gold Kist, D W Brooks.

Gold Kist President and CEO John Bekkers said, "Our company has a long history of support and commitment to UGA. We believe the establishment of this professorship has the potential of being one of the most important investments Gold Kist has made for the future of the poultry industry. Research in avian disease prevention is critical to the industry's success, and we are proud to be taking a leadership role along with UGA in this research area."

CAES poultry science department head Mike Lacy said, "The benefits of [this] research to Georgia poultry farmers and consumers are critically important, whether we are talking about routine disease prevention, food safety, bio-terrorism or keeping avian influenza out of the US."

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