Nutrition
In nutrition science the Doctoral School is predominantly dealing with the up-to-date nutrition of pig and poultry applying the tools and methods of molecular genetics and proteomics. In one of the doctoral programmes nutrition based on molecular genetic parameters and the more accurate measurement of the lysine/digestible energy rate are the main goals to produce better pork for human consumption. This programme is a part of the food science based on genetic profile.
Application of new generation food additives in poultry feeding is also important for producing better food of animal origin for human nutrition. Another theme is the investigation of feed protein sources and their substitution for broilers based on the newest physiological and immunological knowledge. Another program starting in the near future will deal with the reduction of the harmful effects of the changing climate, especially heat stress by nutrition for producing good quality and safe human food. Beside modern feeding research the extensive (pasture utilization) and intensive production forms are in harmony with the type of the animal (traditional and new breeds, crossings). Beside the traditional ruminants, pig, poultry and fish our Doctoral School is dealing with wild animals (wild pig, roe deer, hare, black grouse), as well.
Fish biology
Fish production is extremely important in Eastern Hungary and it is reflected in the research themes of the Doctoral School. The studies on fish biology are carried out in our infrastructurally well equipped laboratory. In this field our most important partner is the NAIK – Fishery Research Institute, Szarvas, where also the feeding with immune-strengthening medical plants is investigated in Chinese cooperation. In another group of fish nutrition they investigate the possibilities of total or partly replacing the fish meal and fish oil by plant materials. Besides keeping traditional carp lines, they are also working with new species (e.g. tilapia, barramundi) in production by using thermal and cooling water. The water used in fish production is passed to aquaponia system for herb and vegetable production.