Genetic susceptibility to osteoporosis in laying hens; physiology and genetics

A prestigious PhD studentship is available in memory of a distinguished researcher at The Roslin Institute, Professor Pete Kaiser. The proposed projects reflect the interests of our late colleague in avian biology. The studentship is fully funded for four years, with an enhanced stipend and consumable allocation to attract the strongest candidates. Three projects are offered in the area in which Professor Kaiser was an internationally renowned expert. Selection will be based on the best candidate and their project preference. An obituary recording the life and scientific achievements of Professor Kaiser can be accessed via the link below. Informal enquiries may be made to the supervisors of the advertised projects.

Obituary for Professor Pete Kaiser: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/03079457.2016.1251745


Laying hens suffer from limb and keel bone fractures due in part to osteoporosis. A recent UK survey (Sandilands, 2011) reported bone fracture in 53% of extensive housed hens. Genetics explains the largest portion of variation (40%) in osteoporosis and bone fracture (Dunn et al., 2007, Bishop et al., 2000). Breeding with a retrospective index improved tibial strength (Bishop et al., 2000). In an F2 cross a QTL for bone strength was found (Dunn et al., 2007). The best SNP explained a large difference in tibial breaking strength; 209 versus 276 Newtons. We have discovered a very strong candidate gene using NGS to quantify the bone transcriptome. We specifically wish to test hypothesis on how this gene influences bone strength in vivo and in vitro. From new GWAS studies we have strong signals at other loci and these will also be available to exploit. As we develop new phenotypes there will be options to understand their application or develop new phenotypes especially for keel bone damage. Keel damage is emerging as a major challenge with alternative housing; we are part of a COST action which will provide training in this area. We have extensive keel bone and long bone samples from pedigree hens with which to build up a picture of the keel bone and the genetic relationship of different measurements to assess its quality. The candidate will be able to build up a picture of the genetic relationship of the different parameters. The successful candidate would benefit from the considerable expertise that currently exists at the institute in bone biology and we aim to train the next generation of expert in avian bone biology and pathology. Techniques which will be used in understanding the biology of the genes on bone strength include compression testing, histo-morphometry, in vitro differentiation of osteoclasts from different genotypes, immunohistochemistry and histology, biochemical assays and protein expression. We collaborate with a bio-mineralogist using optical emission spectroscopy (Ca/P ratio, Mg content); infrared spectrometry for mineralization, collagen cross-linking and mineral crystallinity which opens further training options. Ultimately we aim to improve bone quality in laying hens and reduce bone damage through genetic selection.

Application procedure:
Applications including a full CV with names and addresses (including email addresses) of two academic referees, should be sent to: Liz Archibald, Postgraduate Research Student Administration, The Roslin Institute and R(D)SVS, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG. Or emailed to [Email Address Removed].

When applying for the studentship please state clearly the title of the studentship and the supervisors in your covering letter/email.