The Future of Livestock Farming

Thursday 9th April 2026, 7:00pm to 8:00pm

Bayes Centre, Bayes Theorem, University of Edinburgh

Could gene editing transform the future of livestock farming? From avian flu–resistant chickens to animals better adapted to climate change, gene editing technologies could reshape animal health, welfare, and food security. But how does it work, and what are the ethical and policy implications?


Piglets - image credit Roslin Institute

impact of gene editing

Gene editing is no longer science fiction; it’s a new scientific tool that could help tackle some of the biggest challenges in livestock farming. 

From disease-resistant pigs and poultry to climate-resilient cattle breeds, gene editing builds on centuries of selective breeding with greater precision. 

But what does this mean for farming, animal welfare, and the food on our plates?


Join scientists from the Roslin Institute, alongside experts in animal welfare, global food systems, and farming, as they unpack the real science behind gene-edited livestock. With recent breakthroughs, such as the gene-edited pigs being approved for sale in the US, and the introduction of the UK’s Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act 2023, now is the time to move beyond clickbait and understand what’s really happening, and what’s coming next.

This evening panel discussion, part of the Edinburgh Science Festival, is focused on the science and impact of gene editing in agriculture.

Panellists: 

  • Prof Helen Sang – Emeritus Professor of Animal Biotechnology, the Roslin Institute
  • Dr Christine Tait-Burkard – Group Leader in Animal Health, the Roslin Institute
  • Prof Marie Haskell – Professor of Animal Behaviour and Welfare, SRUC
  • Andrew Meredith – Editor, Farmers Weekly
  • Panel Chair: Dr Finn Grey – Co-Convener of the Engineering Biology Hub for Future Farmed Animals, the Roslin Institute



This is a fully interactive event: ask questions and use your smartphone to vote in live polls and share your views anonymously throughout the evening. 

Whether you’re curious, cautious, or just keen to learn more, come be part of this timely conversation about the future of food and farming. 

Suitable for Ages 12+



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