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Research Platform:

Precision Phenotyping

Bridging Pig Breeding and Human Health with CT Data

From big data to deeper insight 

 

Precision Phenotyping platform uses advanced technologies, such as CT scanning and sensors for automated data collection to improve data collection and develop novel traits for pig breeding.  

Artificial intelligence (AI) is central to this platform, enabling the analysis of large, complex, multi-dimensional datasets that are challenging to interpret using traditional methods. 

This data fuels better prediction models and selection decisions that increase genetic progress in traits like carcass quality, nutrient efficiency and robustness. 

Turning complex biology into measurable traits 

Future breeding goals should include development of multiple aspects of physiology, robustness and behavior, and in many cases the ability to measure relevant traits becomes a limiting factor for genetic progress. The Precision Phenotyping Platform addresses this by testing out new sensors of relevance, while building systems for storage, structuring and processing of data.  

AI-driven analytics play a key role in this process, by translating continuous streams of sensor, video, and biological data into robust, standardized phenotypes that can be used in genetic evaluation. 

Further viable systems are put in production for automated capture of high-resolution data and translation into actionable phenotypes for selection. 

Platform Lead

Platform Lead

Øyvind Nordbø, PhD

PhD in Biological Physics

Developing novel relevant traits for pig breeding from complex data sources.
Works at the interface of genetics, phenotyping and AI.

View scientific publications on

ResearchGate

Platform news

  • Øyvind Nordbø and Muhammad Umair Hassan are part of the Topigs Norsvin team leading the development of AI models for pig behavior detection.

    AI-Powered Detection of Pig Behavior 

    In modern pig farming, recent developments in computer vision can assist automated surveillance and facilitate novel insights into animal behavior and health. By combining video technology with AI, Topigs Norsvin can detect both preferred and unwanted behaviors more efficiently than with traditional manual systems.

  • Bridging Pig Breeding and Human Health with CT Data

    Bridging Pig Breeding and Human Health with CT Data

    Pigs and humans have relatively similar physiology. Therefore, pigs are often used as animal models in surgical training and biomedical research. Unlike humans, pigs have relatively short lifespans, so with pigs we do not face the same medical challenges, such as potential radiation damage from CT scanning. In this article, we recount how, by sharing our knowledge and innovative solutions, Topigs Norsvin is contributing to advancements in human medicine.