Lopes will work collaboratively across research, genetic programs, IT and commercial teams to analyze dairy performance data, monitor trends and develop tools that support customer success. He will contribute to advancing Select Sires’ data-driven strategies while helping tailor insights for both internal stakeholders and dairy producers.
“We are excited to welcome Lucas Lopes to the Select Sires team,” said Cheryl Marti, Associate Vice President Data Services, Select Sires Inc. “Lucas brings a unique combination of advanced genetic expertise and practical experience working with dairy data. His ability to translate complex analytics into meaningful, producer-focused insights will strengthen our efforts to deliver solutions that drive measurable results on the farm.”
A native of Brazil, Lopes brings a strong background in animal breeding, quantitative genetics and dairy production research. He earned his Ph.D. in animal breeding and genetics from the University of Guelph, where he contributed to industry-leading research adopted by the Canadian dairy sector. His work supported the first genetic evaluation of dairy cattle for methane emissions, helping advance more sustainable breeding decisions. He also pioneered research on rumination time, including genome-wide association studies and the first published heritability estimates for the trait in Canadian dairy cattle.
Lopes also holds a master’s degree in animal breeding and genetics and a bachelor’s degree in animal science from São Paulo State University in Brazil. Throughout his academic career, he received multiple honors recognizing his scientific contributions, including the International Doctoral Tuition Scholarship and the Brian W. Kennedy Memorial Scholarship.
Most recently, Lopes served as a research assistant with Trouw Nutrition and held a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College. In these roles, he focused on data management, statistical modeling and genetic evaluation, including work supporting the development of genetic evaluations for beef-on-dairy cattle. He has also demonstrated strong communication skills through teaching, conference presentations and the publication of research in leading scientific journals, including the Journal of Dairy Science.
Proficient in statistical programming and data analysis, Lopes has a demonstrated ability to apply innovative approaches, including artificial intelligence and data-driven methodologies, to address industry challenges and support dairy producers.
Lopes will play an important role in advancing Select Sires’ data analytics capabilities, helping producers make more confident breeding, culling and replacement decisions tied directly to on-farm profitability.