Meta-analysis of productivity data from high / low methane-emitting sheep

New Zealand has globally leading research demonstrating that methane emissions in sheep are heritable, and divergent selection can reduce methane emissions with no detrimental impact on productivity. While numerous scientific studies have been conducted on, and published relating to, the high and low methane-emitting research flocks over the past fifteen plus years, a comprehensive meta-analysis has not been completed to date. The New Zealand Institute of Bioeconomy Science Limited’s (‘BSI’) business unit, the Ag Emissions Centre (‘AgEC’), is seeking an experienced individual (or small team) to conduct a meta-analysis on the full productivity dataset relating to the high and low methane-emitting research flocks (held by BSI). The core dataset contains data from approximately 260 animals per annum, measured twice per annum for around 30 key traits, since 2011. A wider dataset contains a number of additional trait measurements for the same animals. Additional data may be obtainable from sources other than the BSI core flock, but these data will need to be identified, and access negotiated on a case-by-case basis. We expect that any additional datasets will be small. Meta-analysis requirements: The productivity dataset meta-analysis should include, but not be limited to: prolificacy, live weight gain, reproductive performance, parasite and facial eczema resistance, bodyweight, wool growth, carcase weight, carcase fat %. The meta-analysis should answer the following research questions: *Across the available evidence, what differences in productivity and key traits are observed between high and low methane-emitting sheep? *How consistent are any differences across flocks, breeds, cohorts, years and production conditions? *What is the strength and uncertainty of the evidence for each outcome? *Is there evidence of material adverse, neutral or beneficial associations? *What limitations prevent firm conclusions? For more detailed information and deliverables please see the attached FRP guidelines.