Martin Zuidhof, PhD (Animal Science)

Area of Study / Keywords

Precision livestock feeding Smart Farming Energy partitioning Broiler breeders Reproductive physiology Modeling Heritage genetics

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About

Degree

PhD, University of Alberta

Job/Research Area 

Poultry Systems Modeling & Precision Feeding

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Research

Dr. Zuidhof was the first in the world to develop a transformative precision feeding system to control individual feed intake in group-housed chickens. Over the last 10 years, his research team has been able to consistently achieve very high flock uniformity (coefficient of variation for body weight less than 2%). The system is also proving to be an excellent way to remove confounding body weight variation from experiments so as to better elucidate physiological and metabolic mechanisms that contribute to reproductive success in poultry. 

In addition to its practical commercial potential, the precision feeding system facilitates high quality research with free-run birds, directly addressing the societal issue of animal confinement.

Research focus

1. Precision feeding
2. Broiler breeder and layer management
3. Optimizing pullet body weight and composition for lifetime reproductive efficiency
4. Dietary energy partitioning to maintenance (heat production), growth, and reproduction
5. Broiler growth and development (optimization)

Unique skillset and capabilities

1. Development and optimization of linear and nonlinear mixed statistical models
2. Development of nonlinear mathematical models with biologically relevant coefficients
3. Broiler breeder nutrition
4. Precision feeding 

• Flock uniformity (< 2% coefficient of variation in body weight)
• Reduced nutrient excretion
• Analysis of foraging (feed seeking) and feeding behaviour patterns

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Teaching

Teaching philosophy

Some of the core principles of my teaching philosophy include mastery of the material to be taught, stimulating questions about the material, and providing support for students to learn more from credible sources. I read textbooks, peer-reviewed material in the subject area, and trade publications that relate to issues discussed in my classes. I interact with industry and research professionals for innovative insights into their latest discoveries, successes, and challenges. Beyond mastery of subject material, I recognize that students must learn through experiences that relate to the subject matter. My goal is to present a broad range of perspectives so that students can develop not only knowledge but also informed opinions relating to subject matter. During lectures and project work, I create opportunities for students to articulate these points of view, which gives them a deeper understanding of the material and its context. 

Guiding principles

1. Provide opportunities for CREATIVE expression
2. CONNECTING teaching and research
3. Learning happens best in supportive COMMUNITIES
4. CLARITY and succinct communication
5. CONSEQUENCE and relevance - what students are learning matters in the real world
6. CRITICAL scientific thinking
7. CONTINUOUS improvement

AN SC 101 - Principles of Animal Agriculture

Principles and practices of modern animal production and management. Brief introduction to the structure of the livestock, poultry, and game ranching industries. Principles of animal management, breeding and feeding. Current issues in animal agriculture. Students gain direct experience with animals in production/research environments. Not to be taken if credit received for AN SC 200. Prerequisite: Biology 30.

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AN SC 479 - Integrative Project in Animal Science

A team-based capstone course exploring broad areas of animal agriculture. Students will work in groups with mentors on a project involving experiential learning and skill development related to the field.

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AN SC 499 - Integrative Project in Animal Health Science

A team-based capstone course exploring broad areas of animal health. Students will work in groups with mentors on a project involving experiential learning and skill development related to the field.

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Browse more courses taught by Martin Zuidhof

van der Klein, S. A. S., R. P. Kwakkel, B. Ducro, and M. J. Zuidhof

Poultry Science. 2020 September; 99 (11):5615-5624

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Zuidhof, M. J.

Poultry Science. 2020 September; 99 (11):5607-5614

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Hanlon, C., R. Ramachandran, M. J. Zuidhof, and G. Y. Bédécarrats

Frontiers in Physiology. 2020 June; 11 (9):Article 707, 24 pp.

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van der Klein, S. A. S., G. Y. Bédécarrats, and M. J. Zuidhof

Poultry Science. 2020 June; 99 (9):4421-4435

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You, J., S. A. S. van der Klein, E. Lou, and M. J. Zuidhof

Computers and Electronics in Agriculture. 2020 June; 175

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Hadinia, S.H., P. R. O. Carneiro, C. J. Fitzsimmons, G. Y. Bédécarrats, and M. J. Zuidhof

Poultry Science. 2020 February; 99 (4):2215-2229

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Zuidhof, M. J.

Journal of Applied Poultry Research. 2020 February; 29 (1):11-14

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S A S van der Klein, G Y Bédécarrats, M J Zuidhof

Poultry Science. 2018 September; 97 (9):3286-3294

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M. J. Zuidhof, M. V. Fedorak, C. A. Ouellette, I. I. Wenger

Poultry Science. 2017 July; 96 (7):2254-2263

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Pishnamazi, A., R. A. Renema, D. C. Paul, I. I. Wenger, and M. J. Zuidhof

J. Anim. Sci.. 2015 October; 93 (11):4734-4741

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MJ Zuidhof, BL Schneider, VL Carney, DR Korver, FE Robinson

Poultry Science. 2014 December; 93 (12):2970-2982

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Zuidhof*, M. J., M. Betti, D. R. Korver, F.I.L. Hernandez, B. L. Schneider, V. L. Carney, and R. A. Renema

Poultry Science. 2009 May; 88 (5):1108-1120

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Romero, L. F., M. J. Zuidhof, R. A. Renema, A. Naeima, and F. E. Robinson

Poultry Science. 2009 January; 88 (1):227-235

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Wang, Z. and M. J. Zuidhof

Poultry Science. 2004 January; 83 (6):847-852