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Merck Animal Health gives $500,000 to support facility, tech innovation

published: May 18th 2022
by: Kay Ledbetter
source: Texas AgriLife Today

The Texas A&M Department of Animal Science’s new $9.9-million Reproduction and Biotechnology Center has received a $500,000 donation from Merck Animal Health, known as MSD Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co. Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey.

The new animal science center, expected to be completed in 2023, will include research labs, educational spaces, animal-handling areas and dedicated research lab space for emerging technologies and practices for academic and industry partner use.

“We’re grateful for Merck Animal Health’s support in helping build this new state-of-the-art facility,” said Cliff Lamb, Ph.D., director for Texas A&M AgriLife Research and former head of the Department of Animal Science. “This facility will advance ruminant management and health by identifying and developing new and innovative technologies associated with reproduction and genetic sciences and allow us to apply it to the sustainability of livestock systems.”

Merck Animal Health has a long-standing relationship with Texas A&M and has provided funding and support for veterinary scholarships, internships and research and development projects at the university.

“New technology and therapy research is important to veterinarians and producers in helping to advance sustainable livestock production systems,” said Todd Bilby, Ph.D., dairy technical services director, Merck Animal Health. “Merck Animal Health and Texas A&M share a commitment to advancing the health of animals through innovative science and research-driven solutions.”

Building an industry partnership

The new state-of-the-art Animal Reproductive Biotechnology Center is an important step in enhancing the department’s status as a global leader in domestic animal pregnancy and developmental planning, Lamb said.

The facility will further the department’s pursuit of innovation and collaboration through academic and industry-partnered research, focusing on the latest techniques and hands-on instruction.

According to Merck Animal Health officials, they offer veterinarians, farmers, pet owners and governments one of the widest ranges of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines and health management solutions and services as well as an extensive suite of connected technology that includes identification, traceability and monitoring products.

Merck Animal Health is dedicated to preserving and improving animal’s health, well-being and performance and the people who care for them. It invests extensively in dynamic and comprehensive research and development resources and a modern, global supply chain.

Future gifts for the Animal Reproductive Biotechnology Center

The Texas A&M Foundation is a nonprofit organization that exists for the benefit of Texas A&M University. The Foundation works with former students, corporations and other Texas A&M supporters to match their charitable interests with the university’s priorities. Gifts create scholarships, advance faculty endeavors, enhance student programs and fund new buildings, ultimately creating a brighter future for Texas A&M, one relationship at a time.

To donate to the new Animal Reproductive Biotechnology Center, go to

http://give.am/ANSCConstructionFund.

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