Project Cygnet
Empowering Young Scientists for Impact in Animal Breeding Research
Established in 2026, Project Cygnet is a philanthropic trust fund established by the family, colleagues, and friends of the late Professor Andrew Swan. This fund is dedicated to fostering the next generation of scientific talent by providing targeted funding for unique opportunities that promote intellectual and personal growth, industry engagement, and collaborative skills, ultimately enabling greater impact in the livestock industry.
The Spirit of Project Cygnet
The name "Project Cygnet" holds profound meaning, serving as a fitting tribute to Professor Andrew Swan. "Cygnet," derived from Latin, means "swan" and also refers to a juvenile swan. This symbolism perfectly encapsulates the fund's mission: to support young scientists, much like a young swan developing into its full potential, by empowering them to forge connections and expand their experiences beyond conventional boundaries. This initiative reflects Andrew's lifelong commitment to actively supporting and mentoring emerging scientific talent throughout his esteemed career, with a focus on deep scientific contribution and real-world impact.
The trustees believe that continuous intellectual and personal growth, coupled with strong industry engagement and collaborative skills, are not only essential for building a thriving research career but also for delivering impactful outcomes to our global livestock industries. The fund aims to support individuals who are driven to make a substantive contribution to science and industry, regardless of their position, embodying Andrew's spirit of doing good through dedicated scientific work.
Purpose of the Fund
Project Cygnet aims to support the intellectual and professional development of young scientists through exchange opportunities, fostering their ability to make a greater impact in their field and the industry. The fund is designed for:
· Domestic and International Young Scientists: This includes Masters and PhD students, as well as practicing scientists within five years of graduating from their most recent higher degree program.
· Exchange Programs: Support will be provided for varying forms of exchange, such as international candidates spending time with an Australian host, or Australian candidates undertaking placements abroad.
· Diverse Host Institutions: Host organisations can include scientific institutions engaged in animal breeding research, as well as industry placements where both research and practical application are actively occurring.
Applications for funds and their administration will be managed by AGBU on behalf of a dedicated group of trustees for Project Cygnet'
Remembering Professor Andrew Swan
Professor Andrew Swan, Chief Scientist at the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU), was a globally recognised giant in animal breeding and sheep genetics research. His profound scientific contributions were acknowledged with a fellowship to AAABG in 2023 and the prestigious Helen Newton Turner Medal in 2025. Andrew was characterised by his exceptional capability combined with deep humility, traits that enabled significant impact in industry outcomes and enriched the lives of those he worked with. He was tirelessly guided by a core set of values—Aspire, Create, Act, Deliver, Share, Show, Community—which he applied throughout his career, particularly in mentoring numerous young scientists from around the world. He deeply understood the importance of scientific rigor, excellence, and research that was "fit-for-purpose," directly benefiting livestock industries.
Andrew's professional journey began after graduating from the University of New England and pursuing his PhD at AGBU. He went on to make pioneering contributions to Australian sheep breeding, including his pivotal role in developing MERINOSELECT and LAMBPLAN evaluation systems for Meat and Livestock Australia's Sheep Genetics service. He was instrumental in integrating genomic evaluations into these platforms and, later, as AGBU's Chief Scientist, he expanded his influence to beef evaluations through BREEDPLAN. His innovative spirit led to tools like BIODEX, designed for breeding lower-emission animals, demonstrating his continuous drive to push scientific frontiers and deliver tangible benefits to industry. Andrew's quiet determination and leadership were evident in cultivating teams, and his dedication to delivering for industry earned him deep respect.
Andrew's most enduring legacy lies in the young scientists he mentored and the collaborative networks he fostered, both nationally and internationally. He was a natural mentor who found genuine achievement in supporting others' success, freely sharing his knowledge, tools, and approaches to enhance collective efficiency. His ability to build strong teams and establish vast collaborative networks across the world underscored his belief in shared learning and mutual growth. Project Cygnet seeks to honour this legacy by continuing Andrew's commitment to nurturing young scientific talent, encouraging the very connections and expanded experiences that he so passionately championed.
Pictured above is Andrew attending an industry event with two young scientists, despite having a broken collar bone (yes - it was a cycling event)
Applications for funds and their administration will be managed by AGBU on behalf of a dedicated group of trustees for Project Cygnet'
The information collected on this form is for processing and receipting your donation. Personal payment information is processed by IP Payment Systems and not stored by the University of New England. Secondary purposes may include updating your details for future communications about fundraising activities and opportunities. This information will be processed by the Office of Advancement. Information collected on this form will adhere to UNE’s Privacy Management Rule and Procedures. Please visit UNE's Privacy page for more information.
Please note some transactions over $3,000 or certain credit card transactions (AMEX, Diners Club or Foreign Currency) may incur an additional processing fee. For more information or assistance please contact advance@une.edu.au
