Sipke Joost Hiemstra

Sipke Joost Hiemstra serves as Head of the Centre for Genetic Resources, the Netherlands (CGN) at Wageningen University & Research. He manages the Dutch national programme for conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources (crops, farm animals, trees and aquatic species) for the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality.

His professional roles include:

• Director of the EU Reference Center for Endangered Animal Breeds (EURC-EAB)
• Dutch National Coordinator for Animal Genetic Resources
• Representative for the Netherlands in the European Regional Focal Point for Animal Genetic Resources (ERFP network)

Mr. Hiemstra's research focuses on preserving genetic diversity as a foundation for sustainable agricultural systems. His work spans animal breeding and genetics, biodiversity conservation, and genetic resource management across multiple agricultural sectors.

He leads several key initiatives including the IMAGE project (Innovative management of Animal Genetic Resources) and oversees program coordination for genetic resources conservation efforts in the Netherlands.

His scientific contributions relate to:

• Development of new system requirements for breeding
• Evaluation of genetic diversity within livestock breeds
• Biodiversity in food systems
• Program coordination for genetic resources conservation

Mr. Hiemstra's office is located at Wageningen University & Research in the Radix building, room E0.230, with contact number +31317480506.