The two entities recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), in which DSM will provide $2.5 million in funding to NC State over the first three years of the partnership with potential increases to follow. Funding will go toward renovations to the university’s existing animal sciences buildings, as well as the construction of two new facilities.
“With renowned experts in poultry science, animal science and veterinary medicine, coupled with ambitious scientific resources, North Carolina State University is an ideal partner for DSM,” said Tom Frost, director of innovation for animal nutrition and health for DSM North America. “The collaboration with NC State will also provide fertile ground for new talent development within the industry, leading to continued advancements and scientific discoveries in animal health.”
NC State’s College of Agriculture and Life Science (CALS) and College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) were mentioned in the MOU as DSM’s primary research partners. While past projects have focused largely on poultry and swine health and nutrition, this new partnership will delve into those topics for companion animals, farmed fish, cattle and other small ruminant animals.
“This opportunity to partner with DSM is especially timely as we look at the huge challenges that the world faces in terms of food supply and food security in the years to come,” said Paul Lunn, dean of NC State’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “How we produce food and how food affects our health is a focus of DSM and both colleges. This is the perfect opportunity to address it together.”
DSM will fund all trials conducted by NC State as a part of their research partnership. The company hopes to conduct “more timely research trials” through this collaboration.
“North Carolina is the complete ecosystem for animal health and nutrition innovation,” added Richard Linton, dean of NC State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “Not only do we have a strong agriculture and life sciences community, we are home to one of the world’s largest animal agriculture economies. This MOU not only enhances our partnership with DSM, it will create new opportunities for CALS and CVM to leverage NC State’s totally integrated food animal system, our incredible research, teaching and Extension, to help grow the state’s largest economic driver – agriculture.”
