The FCS Financial Rural Community and Agriculture Foundation recently granted $50,000 to the University of Missouri’s (MU) swine research program. The grant enables the program to receive a match offered by the MU Office of Research and College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR).
MU’s swine research complex houses and supports CAFNR’s undergraduate teaching, graduate student projects and research related to swine. Nearly 10% of their Bachelor of Sciences graduates are employed by the swine industry.
“Maintaining this strong animal research infrastructure helps CAFNR recruit and retain world class researchers whose innovations transform animal agriculture,” says Tim Safranski, Ph.D., Professor, Animal Sciences and State Swine Extension Specialist. “Additionally, swine are increasingly being recognized as a valuable model for human biomedical research due to their similarities in size and general physiology. CAFNR researchers are world leaders in developing pig models of human diseases including cystic fibrosis, macular degeneration, colon cancer, and currently, susceptibility to COVID-19.”
Today more than ever, the swine industry incorporates technology and needs talented individuals involved at all steps of the process. With fewer students growing up with swine experience, employers are open to filling positions with talented and well-trained individuals who can grow on the job. Support for these non-classroom opportunities comes largely from off-campus partners.
The FCS Financial Rural Community and Agriculture Foundation represents the cooperative’s long-term commitment to a thriving and prosperous agricultural industry and our rural communities. The Foundation focuses on targeted, long-term investments.
“FCS Financial is committed to the future of agriculture and the science behind it,” says David Janish, FCS Financial CEO. “A world class swine research program provides benefits to Missouri agriculture, the state economy and global health.”
Additional information and the Rural Community and Agriculture Foundation application are available online or email marketing@myfcsfinancial.com.
