Lydia Conrad is an MSc student at the University of Guelph in the department of Animal Biosciences. She holds a Hon.BSc in animal biology also from the University of Guelph. During her undergrad Lydia worked as a research assistant on various projects, helping on farm, in lab, and with analysis. This led to a fourth-year research project where Lydia investigated sow crushing behaviour in different outdoor farrowing environments. Her current research is focused on using genetic selection for low boar taint as a welfare friendly alternative to surgical castration in pigs. Lydia is passionate about animal welfare and behaviour. She has also worked for both large and small animal veterinarians and has experience with a variety of species.
Lydia’s work and academic experience have allowed her to become skilled in coordinating clinical trials, data collection and analysis, and scientific writing. During her spare time Lydia enjoys swimming, fishing, and walking her dog.