Prof. David Kenny appointed as President of the British Society of Animal Science

Professor David Kenny has been appointed President of the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS), marking a significant milestone as only the second president based in the Republic of Ireland.

Prof. Kenny follows in the footsteps of Dr Jim O’Grady, who served from 1990 to 1991, in representing Ireland's vibrant contributions to the field of animal science.

Prof. Kenny's presidency comes at an exciting time, coinciding with the announcement that the BSAS Annual Conference in 2025 will be hosted in Galway, Ireland, from April 8-10. The theme, ‘Animal Science supporting livestock's role in a global society’, underscores the critical role of animal science in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the livestock industry worldwide.

Prof. Kenny's appointment reinforces the society's commitment to driving collaboration among scientists, industry professionals, and policymakers to address pressing challenges and opportunities in livestock farming and animal welfare, and nurturing the next generation of animal scientists. His dedication to excellence and passion for advancing the field make him an ideal choice to lead the society forward.

CEO of the British Society of Animal Science, Maggie Mitchell said: “We are delighted to welcome Prof. David Kenny as our new President. His extensive expertise and leadership qualities will be invaluable as we continue to drive advancements in animal science for the benefit of society and the environment.”

Expressing his gratitude and enthusiasm, Prof. Kenny stated: “I am honoured and privileged to lead the British Society of Animal Science as president for the next 12 months.

"The society continues to play a pivotal role as a platform for the widespread dissemination of state-of-the-art research findings, professional development, education, and as a representative body for the animal science sector.”

As Head of the Teagasc Animal and Bioscience Research Department in Ireland, Prof. Kenny brings over 25 years of research experience to his new role. His expertise spans a wide range of topics, including the biological control of economically important traits in ruminant livestock production systems, ruminal methanogenesis, and the development and functionality of the rumen microbiome.

Prof. Kenny's commitment to research and education is exemplified by his supervision of 19 Ph.D. and numerous M.Sc. students. his extensive publication record, which includes over 200 internationally peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts and book chapters. He is a recognised leader in the field, serving as the incoming president of BSAS, president of the Physiology Study Commission of the European Association of Animal Production, and a member of the management board of the international scientific journal, animal.

Among his many accolades, Prof. Kenny was awarded the prestigious Hammond Award by BSAS in 2018 for his outstanding contributions to understanding how nutrition affects economically important traits in cattle. Beyond his academic pursuits, Prof. Kenny is deeply involved in the agricultural community, running a beef and sheep farm in Co. Mayo, Ireland, and actively engaging with the beef cattle sector and wider agricultural industry.

“I intend to work closely with the presidential team and the Trustees to further grow the society's membership, events, publications, and training opportunities,” Prof. Kenny affirmed, adding: “Together, we will continue the diligent work of our predecessors in ensuring the viability and continued development of BSAS into the future.”

Prof. David Kenny's presidency heralds a new chapter for the British Society of Animal Science, marked by innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to advancing the frontiers of animal science for the betterment of society and the environment.