Chief Scientific Adviser to the Government of Ireland In addition to his advisory role, Dr. Cunningham is professor of animal genetics at Trinity College, University of Dublin. He holds degrees in agricultural science and animal nutrition from the National University of Ireland and a Ph.D. degree in Animal Genetics from Cornell University. He was formerly deputy director of research in the Irish National Agriculture and Food Research Institute, visiting professor at the Economic Development Institute of the World Bank, and director of the Animal Production and Health Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. He has published extensively on the genetics of domesticated animals and is a recipient of the Boyle Medal, Ireland's premier award in science. Dr. Cunningham led the Irish team behind the successful bid to host the 2012 European City of Science event in Dublin and is co-founder of the biotechnology company IdentiGEN.