SILOAM SPRINGS, ARK. — Cobb-Vantress, a subsidiary of Tyson Foods Inc., announced an extension for pre-proposals for the 2024 funding round of the Cobb Research Initiative (CRI), which is open through March 6.

The CRI was developed to help propel poultry genetics further through opportunities that bring diverse scientific research disciplines to create advancements in global protein production. CRI priorities include broiler breeder livability, broiler livability, meat quality, hatchability and chick quality, and egg fertility and production.

“At Cobb, we are committed to advancing food security, safety, sustainability and efficiency to ensure the continued accessibility and affordability of protein,” said William Herring, vice president of research and development at Cobb. “To achieve these objectives, we collaborate with experts across diverse fields, extending beyond poultry experts, to glean novel insights and develop cutting-edge tools to advance poultry genetics.”

Cobb encourages proposals that promote the convergence of science, automation, data and technology to advance poultry genetics, health, welfare and production efficiency.

In 2023, Cobb awarded nine grants in its first round of funding, creating partnerships with eight research programs across several countries.

“The Cobb Research Initiative has been instrumental in enhancing my research program,” said Dr. Yang Zhao, 2023 grant recipient, University of Tennessee. “It has provided a platform for expanding my knowledge in the (poultry) breeding industry while also facilitating the development and implementation of cutting-edge technologies that would otherwise be difficult to achieve.”