This interview is with James D. Murray, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Animal Science. Jim held a joint appointment in the department of Animal Science in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and the department of Population, Health and Reproduction in the School of Veterinary Medicine. He was appointed in 1989 and retired in 2021.
Jim’s research focused on genetic engineering of farm animals and animal models such as the mouse. He worked to develop and improve the technologies associated with cloning and production of transgenic animals. His work included the successful insertion and inheritance of a transgene in goats (lysozyme) which led to positive modification of anti- microbial, and functional and lipid characteristics of milk. He also studied aspects of equine (horse) genetics and genomics. His teaching focused on molecular biology techniques, animal science, and the controversy surrounding transgenic animals.
Jim served as Chair of Animal Science and also served terms as chair for two graduate groups (Genetics; Animal Biology). He was named a AAAS fellow and was a lead organizer of the Transgenic Animal Conference held at Lake Tahoe for over 30 yr period.
He is interviewed by his friend and colleague, Mary Delany, Professor Emerita of Animal Science.
