Welcome to the first issue of 2019 – I trust all our members enjoyed the holiday period and had a happy new year. This issue covers a range of topics, including genetics, meat processing, novel feed ingredients, immunity, behaviour and management systems. Currently, myself and the newly appointed editorial team from the Global Board are working hard to make some changes to the journal, not least the hand over to a new publisher (Taylor and Francis) from the current publisher (Cambridge University Press). I would like to thank both of these publishers for their help and support during the transition period. Authors and readers will hopefully not notice any difference in their interaction with the journal, as I aim to have a seamless handover.

The year 2019 sees many excellent WPSA events being planned. There are 19 events currently listed on the www.wpsa.com website giving details and links to conferences and meetings. Please take a look at what is on offer, and attend where possible. Our association news covers some very interesting topics – including an initiative from Pakistan to encourage more women into poultry science. I would like to congratulate the branch on this – and please let me know if you want some input from your female journal editor – happy to help and show young women in agriculture what opportunities are out there and how you can make a difference.

We have lost some notable poultry scientists in the last 12 months – most recently Jim McNab who sadly died suddenly over the Christmas holidays at home. Jim was a mentor to me many years ago when I was a PhD student and spent a week working with him learning how to conduct TME trials. He remained a friend and colleague from that time. Jim, of course, was the WPSJ Editor in the 1990s and an active WPSA member, organising various poultry events over the years. Our thoughts are with his wife Carol and the family.

As ever, I trust you all enjoy this issue of the WPSJ.

Dr Lucy Waldron

Editor