Bernard Laarveld

Background

About Bernard Laarveld

As a Professor in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources I have a strong interest in innovation and R&D in agriculture and bioresource sectors. Research includes the development of ruminant feeds using byproducts from the biofuel industry; development of nutraceutical feed products; evaluation of immune stimulants in animal health; the study of metabolic diseases and health in animals. My original PhD research involved study of thyrotoxic effects of rapeseed and canola meals in dairy cattle and swine. Currently I collaborate in research on the effect of goitrogens and iodine on thyroid function in foals and mares and on a novel method for stimulating germination of seed, which arose from earlier collaborative work on manure treatment. I taught animal nutrition and physiology to agriculture and veterinary students, and on the role of animal agriculture in global food production. I coordinated the 4th year undergraduate thesis capstone course. Research infrastructure development was an important aspect in the later stage of my career. Funding of $13 million, including from the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, was acquired for the construction of the Canadian Feed Research Centre (CFRC). The CFRC is a leading global research centre for feed processing research and commercialization. The construction of the $11 million Rayner Dairy Research and Teaching Facility was completed in 2013. This development resulted in on-going close collaboration and consultation with dairy producers and creation of the annual Dairy Info Day. I was a leading force in the creation of the Feeds Innovation Institute to assist the feed sector with research and tech transfer and similarly with the Western Beef Development Centre. Consulting: I have advised on science and R&D in the area of animal nutrition, feed development, and animal physiology. Specialties: Research, education, strategic planning in academia and research, institutional development, animal nutrition and health, agriculture and biorefining.