Program Director:
- Dr. László Stündl, PhD
Members:
- Dr. István Csízi, PhD
- Dr. Judit Remenyik, PhD
- Dr. Csaba Szabó, PhD
- Dr. Péter Bársony, PhD
- Dr. Milán Fehér, PhD
- Dr. Sándor Alex Nagy, PhD
- Dr. László Váradi, PhD
Animal Nutrition
Within the field of animal nutrition (primarily swine, poultry, and waterfowl), the Doctoral School’s research is closely linked to modern feeding practices, making use of molecular genetics and proteomics tools and methodologies. One of our doctoral programs focuses on nutrient supply based on molecular genetic parameters and on more accurate determination of the lysine/digestible energy (DE) ratio in pig diets, with the aim of producing pork that better meets human nutritional expectations. This program is part of the broader discipline of nutrition tailored to genetic profiles.
Another important research area is the use of next-generation feed additives in poultry diets to improve the quality of animal-derived food raw materials. A key emerging topic is the evaluation of alternative protein sources in feed and their substitution in broiler diets, guided by the latest physiological and immunological findings.
Research is also underway on mitigating the adverse effects of climate change (especially heat stress) on poultry through nutritional interventions, with the goal of producing high-quality and safe food.
Alongside modern nutrition research, the program also addresses both extensive (pasture-based) and intensive feeding systems, adapted to different animal types (traditional breeds, new breeds, crossbreeds). In addition to ruminants, swine, poultry, and fish, the Doctoral School also includes research on wild animals (wild boar, roe deer, European hare, capercaillie). Emphasis is placed on feeding strategies that match genetic potential, ensure product quality, and safeguard both animal and human health.
Fish Biology
Due to geographical conditions, freshwater fish production holds significant potential in the region, a fact reflected in the research topics offered by the Doctoral School. R&D activities in freshwater aquaculture and related fields cover issues of fish biology, fish breeding, larval and juvenile rearing, grow-out technologies, and nutrition. Our key partner in this field is the Fisheries Research Institute in Szarvas.
Beyond traditional fish production, we also conduct integrated research in areas such as aquaponics, algal production, and the use of renewable energy. The fish production systems developed are suitable for conducting husbandry and nutrition experiments that are essential for developing production technologies for both traditional and novel fish and aquatic species in controlled domestic systems. They also enable the testing and fine-tuning of innovative production practices.
In aquaponic systems, used water from fish production is treated and utilized for the cultivation of high-value food and spice plants, thereby creating sustainable, integrated production cycles.