Introduction
About the Dairy Ecosystem Research & Development Center
Leveraging the unique characteristics of the Seto Inland Sea climate—mild winters and scorching summers—we are becoming a leading hub for technological development aimed at overcoming the global shortage of animal protein.
Our foundation is built upon the reorganized and integrated facilities of our University Farm, Precision Experimental Crop Fields, and Food Processing Training Factory. Here, we conduct research in key areas like livestock and poultry genome editing (for breeding superior varieties), reproductive technology development (to increase production), and advanced feeding management techniques (to boost productivity).
To further accelerate our progress, we are actively collaborating with on-campus researchers from the fields of science and engineering (including information science and sensing technology) as well as social sciences. This collaboration allows us to drive end-to-end research, from fundamental studies to practical societal implementation and even large-scale social transformation, spanning from the lab to the field.
Through these initiatives, we aim to contribute to improving Japan’s self-sufficiency in animal protein on a calorie basis and promoting the export of domestic agricultural products, thereby enhancing the nation’s food security. By integrating our top-tier research capabilities with AI, we will also pioneer innovative animal protein production technologies and create labor-saving solutions through future forecasting. Ultimately, we are committed to helping solve the future challenge of a global supply limit for animal protein.
Research
- Research Professor Toshihisa Sugino’s research was featured on NHK ONE
- Research Press Release: Approximately 260 million yen in funding has been secured for research on semen preservation methods for dairy cattle artificial insemination developed at Hiroshima University (video available)
- Research Press release: Study demonstrates that spore-forming lactic acid bacteria, probiotics, reduce diarrhea and improve growth performance
Message from the Director
The Dairy Ecosystem Research and Development Center (DRDC) in Hiroshima University aims to advance cutting-edge research in dairy and livestock sciences, and to build sustainable production systems for real-world application.
With global challenges such as food security and climate change intensifying, our center focuses on innovative animal protein production, labor-saving technologies, and environmental impact reduction. As part of the university’s “President’s Five Initiatives for Peace Sciences,” we are also committed to improving nutrition and livestock systems in developing countries. Developing technologies for stable dairy supply in hot climates is especially crucial for supporting health and economic growth in low-income regions.
Our strength lies in integrating expertise across disciplines—including AI, big data, genome editing, resource recycling, and cellular agriculture—to create a seamless path from basic research to practical implementation.
Key focus areas include:
Automation to address labor shortages
Smart dairy systems using digital twin technologies
Advanced environmental solutions for waste and emissions
Developing alternative feeds and novel protein sources
Hiroshima’s climate and advanced robotic farm facilities provide ideal conditions for building models applicable to Southeast Asia and Africa. We are already conducting large-scale research projects and will continue to strengthen collaborations with industry, government, and international partners.
Through our research and educational efforts, we aim to contribute to sustainable livestock development and global well-being. We appreciate your continued support.
Professor Toshihisa Sugino
Research & Facilities
Coming Soon
Organization
