College of Veterinary Medicine

Core Research Capabilities:

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Research

Our lab specializes in the epidemiology and microbiology of AMR in food animals. We investigate the mechanisms, transmission dynamics, and risk factors associated with AMR, contributing to informed strategies for mitigating its impact.

Below are the area's of main concentration:

  • Antibiotic Alternatives:

We are committed to exploring sustainable and effective alternatives to antibiotics in cattle and swine production. Our research focuses on innovative approaches to promote animal health without relying on antimicrobial agents. We conduct research on cutting-edge solutions that promote animal health while reducing reliance on traditional antimicrobial agents

  • Antimicrobial Stewardship:

We are committed to advancing the principles of antimicrobial stewardship in food animal production. Our research efforts aim to optimize the use of antibiotics, minimize resistance development, and ensure the responsible management of antimicrobials

  • Systems Approach to AMR:

We specialize in adopting a systems-level perspective to understand the complex dynamics of AMR in food animal agriculture. Our interdisciplinary research approach examines factors such as genetics, microbiology, animal husbandry, and environmental influences to develop comprehensive strategies for AMR management

Preharvest Food Safety

Our expertise extends to preharvest food safety practices, where we study foodborne pathogens, particularly Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter. We work to develop interventions that minimize the risk of contamination and ensure safer food production.

Liver Abscess Research

Our research interests on liver abscess includes investigating both aerobic and or anaerobic bacterial flora, development of antibiotic alternatives, and understanding pathogenesis of liver abscesses and of feedlot cattle. We conduct in-depth investigations into liver abscesses in cattle, aiming to understand their etiology, prevalence, and impacts on animal health and meat quality. Our findings inform strategies for prevention and management.

Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) Research

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the costliest disease of beef cattle in North America. It is multi-factorial, with a variety of physical and physiological stressors combining to predispose cattle to pneumonia. Our research is aimed at developing novel intervention strategies, particularly on development of alternative to antibiotics for bovine respiratory diseases, towards controlling antimicrobial resistance in food animal production systems both in target and off-target pathogens.

Microbiome Analysis

We specialize in exploring the intricate microbial communities that inhabit various biological systems, including the animals and environmental ecosystems. Our research delves into the composition, diversity, and functional potential of microbiomes to elucidate their role in health and disease.

Metagenomics

Our lab employs metagenomic approaches to decipher the genetic makeup of complex microbial communities. We leverage state-of-the-art sequencing technologies and bioinformatics tools to unveil the genetic diversity and functional potential of these microbiomes.

Metabolomics

We investigate the metabolic profiles of organisms and microbial communities to understand the biochemical processes underlying disease pathogenesis. Our metabolomics research provides critical insights into the molecular mechanisms driving health-related outcomes.

Whole Genome Sequencing

Our expertise in whole genome sequencing enables us to unravel the genetic blueprint of pathogens, host organisms, and microbial communities. This comprehensive approach aids in pinpointing genetic factors