Q&A with Dr. Alex Gilley, Global Research and Development Product Specialist

The chicken industry has evolved rapidly over the past few decades. Consumer preferences shifted, quick serve restaurants expanded, and production volume increased significantly to meet demand. Developing new products are paramount to meet the global industry needs. Dr. Alex Gilley gave us an overview of the product development process at Cobb, from assessing market needs to genomic and performance evaluations and finally filling the pipeline. We discovered there is an incredible amount of time and work that goes into developing and testing products. The importance of biosecurity. Learn More

Technical Focus

Cobb's Focus for the Future 

As a poultry genetics company, Cobb’s commitment to genetic progress also focuses on environmental responsibility, benefiting societal and community needs and increasing the efficiency of poultry production. In each of these areas, we ensure current and future progress with the two elements: product quality and dedication to people.

Learn more about Cobb’s future focus here.

Industry and Academics

Our Latest Science and Innovation Engagement

Dr. Mark Cigan and Dr. Mojtaba Jahani attended The International Plant and Animal Genome Conference (PAG33) held January 9-14, 2026. Dr. Cigan presented “Cross-Species Industry Insights: Learnings and Challenges of Translating Lessons from Crops to Livestock Trait Improvement Using Modern Technologies”.

The Plant & Animal Genome Conference (PAG) provides a forum to present and discuss recent developments and future plans for plant and animal genome projects. With 7 plenary talks, more than 220 workshops and, 120+ exhibitors, this 6 day conference brings together a wide range of multi-disciplinary researchers.

Learn more

Dr. Jessica Starkey and Dr. Jesus Arango, attended the International Poultry Scientific Forum (IPSF) held January 26 and 27th, 2026. Dr. Arango’s collaborative work with researchers from North Carolina State University was presented. Work conducted by Cobb R&D team member Dr. Brenda Flack in collaboration with Auburn University and the USDA ARS was also presented. The International Poultry Scientific Forum (IPSF) convened in Atlanta as part of the 2026 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE). The day-and-a-half forum brought together poultry scientists, industry leaders, and students to highlight the latest research and innovations shaping modern poultry production. Cobb’s collaborative work presented at this meeting included:

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Cobb Outlook

Highlighting Cobb’s Genetic Progress:

 The Cobb Research Initiative

The CRI is a Research and Development based program that seeks partnerships with researchers to further our genetic progress and answer key issues facing the global industry. Partnering with external researchers has significantly accelerated the progress of our R&D program by bringing fresh perspectives and specialized expertise. By combining internal knowledge with external talent, we can solve complex challenges more efficiently. The CRI isn’t just about genetics, breeding and biology, we are also actively investigating technology and automation in production.

The Cobb Research Initiative is currently accepting pre-proposal applications for our funding program. The submission portal will be open through March 3rd, 2026. 

Click here to learn more.

What’s new in Technical Literature at Cobb

Check Out Our Latest Technical Literature

Cobb800 Breeder Management Supplement


Just released! This new supplement guides customers on how to grow our newest breeder. Click here

Cobb Research- Showcasing Our Peer Reviewed Scientific Publications

Cobb collaborates with international institutions to identify methods of protecting genetic material that is vital to product development.

Dr. Rachel Hawken, Director of Biotechnology in Cobb’s Research and Development department, recently published work completed with an international team of scientists. The team aimed to tackle one of the key bottlenecks in poultry genetics and conservation: the challenge of reliably freezing and recovering fertile chicken semen. While many livestock species can use frozen semen for breeding, chickens remain a major exception. Click here to find out how the team worked together towards a solution to this industry challenge.

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