Daniela A. L. Lourenco

Daniela A. L. Lourenco is an Associate Professor in Animal Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics at the University of Georgia's College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, Department of Animal and Dairy Science. Originally from Brazil, she has built an internationally recognized research program focused on genomic selection across multiple livestock species. Her work has significant impact on the development and implementation of genomic evaluation methods used worldwide.

Dr. Lourenco's research interests center on improving livestock production through genomic information, with specific focus on genomic selection methodologies for beef and dairy cattle, swine, poultry, and fish. Her work addresses critical issues related to the implementation of genomic selection, including finding appropriate methodologies, models, and strategies for evaluating livestock populations. She has pioneered work in single-step genomic evaluations, which are now implemented by breeding companies and breed associations globally.

Her publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to the field, with over 275 conference proceedings, 162 peer-reviewed publications, and 85 invited talks on five continents. Recent research focuses on heat tolerance in dairy cattle, genomic evaluation methods for reproductive traits, and the application of large-scale whole genome sequencing data in genomic prediction.

• UGA Fred C. Davis Early Career Award (2020)
• UGA D.W. Brooks Award for Excellence in Research (2024)
• ASAS Innovations in Animal Breeding and Genetics Award (2024)
• Section Editor for Journal of Dairy Science (2022-present)
• Associate Editor for Genetic Selection Evolution (2022-present)

Dr. Lourenco oversees a research team of 15 graduate students and postdocs and has built successful international collaborations, hosting over 40 visitors from different countries since 2015. She teaches advanced courses in linear models applied to breeding and genetics, and current literature in genetics and computing relevant to applications in animal breeding.