On June 18-21, 2024, the COST Action CA22112 European Network on Livestock Phenomics (EU-LI-PHE) held its inaugural training school in phenotyping technologies. The event, hosted by the Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO) in Merelbeke, Belgium, was closely aligned with the goals of EU-LI-PHE Working Group 1 (Phenotyping Technologies).
Over four intensive days, attendees were introduced to EU-LI-PHE and explored their potential contributions as Young Researchers and Innovators. The first day focused on phenome analysis in animal breeding and conducting literature reviews using both traditional systematic methodologies and modern AI-enhanced tools. The second day featured multiple presentations on data visualization. The training school emphasized group work whereby the trainees had hands-on experience in performing literature reviews using the tools they were introduced to during the training, culminating in presentations by each group on the final day. These presentations covered research on current phenotyping technologies and the development of research infrastructures in animal phenomics across Europe. The results from these group activities will significantly contribute to the WG1 deliverables due this autumn.
Participants were awarded certificates and expressed high satisfaction with the event’s organization and content. Many attendees plan to stay actively involved with EU-LI-PHE. The success of this training school was made possible by the dedication of the trainers, trainees, and the Local Organizing Committee members, along with ILVO’s continuous support.
We extend our gratitude to all involved and look forward to future training and engagement activities within EU-LI-PHE, as well as external events that will further enhance our networking and research efforts.
