Professor Liam Sinclair

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Professor Liam Sinclair

Agriculture and Environment, Harper Adams University

Scientific Background

Research Interests

Dairy cow nutrition and metabolism.
Rumen metabolism and methane mitigation.
Manipulation of the polyunsaturated and conjugated linoleic acid content of milk and meat.
Forage management for dairy cows.
Mineral metabolism of dairy cows.

Involved with these other projects (as researcher)

Dietary effects on the rumen microbiome in dairy cows

Scientific Inspiration

Sir John Hammond. Widely regarded as the father of modern animal physiology, Sir John pioneered studies at the University of Cambridge in the 1920’s on embryo survival, artificial insemination, animal growth and development and animal genetics. In addition to the quality and breadth of his science, he was dedicated to ensuring that his research findings were disseminated to the wider scientific community and livestock industries, and was the founding member of the British Society of Animal Science, the British Cattle Breeders Club, and the European Association for Animal Production.

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Supportive, collaborative, guiding.

Provision of Training

Your training will be a combination of supervision and advice from your supervisors, experienced post-docs, PhD students and technicians, along with a structured learning program. With time your training will become more independent with the expectation that you will take greater responsibility for developing methods and obtaining appropriate skills.

Progression Monitoring and Management

We will agree on suitable progress on a weekly/monthly basis and monitor progress, with the expectation that you will have greater responsibility for this as your studies progress. There is an open-door policy where you can approach your supervisory team as and when required (e.g. personal meeting, e-mail, teams), either informally over a cup of coffee, or in more structured meetings where progress will be reviewed and solutions to any problems discussed and agreed.

Communication

I have an open-door policy for communication and support with options such as a chat at coffee time, e-mail, Teams meetings or meeting in person available as and when required. I am happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential or my/our expectations, and expect you to manage your work/life balance.

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:

In a group meeting

At least once per week

In year 1 of PhD study

At least once per week

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once per week

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

These meetings will be mainly face to face, and I am usually contactable for an instant response 3 or 4 days per week.

Working Patterns

Certain tasks in my lab need to occur at set times, and students need to be able to commit to a rota/timetable shared with other members of the team.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 2 weeks' notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Current Projects (2025-26)

Co-supervisor on a project with Dr Marie Kirby.

Previous Projects (2024-25)

Primary supervisor for:

CASE: Factors influencing the production of mycotoxins in grass silage and their effect on the rumen microbiome and health and performance of dairy cows