Parasitic worm infections are increasingly prevalent in organic poultry production. Treatment with anthelminthic drugs results in a withdrawal time on organic eggs. Alternative methods are needed to control disease and more research is needed to elucidate host-pathogen interactions.
The general research focus in our group is on the intestinal tract in relation to health, feed utilization and immune development. Moreover, studies include prophylactic strategies like vaccination as well as immunity regulation especially with a view to preventing disease. Ongoing projects comprise e.g., the large chicken roundworm Ascaridia galli and interventions, which may mitigate or prevent infection by using immunomodulating and antiparasitic plant feed additives. Several projects are ongoing in relation to layers and Ascaridia galli. The thesis content can be adjusted according to student interests.
Project start and ECTS content flexible. Degree of lab work adjustable according to ECTS
Flexible
Possibility to do office work in Aarhus
Lab work at Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, AU-Viborg, DK-8830 Tjele.
30 ECTS: Theoretical thesis based on literature studies and/or analysis of issued and edited data sets.
45 ECTS: Experimental theses in which the student is responsible for collection and analysis of his/her own original data.
60 ECTS: Experimental theses in which the student is responsible for planning, trial design and collection and analysis of his/her own original data.
The master student will be associated with a group of scientists, postdocs, and PhD-students and their experimental work in on-going projects. The student will get the possibility to be trained in e.g., animal experimentation, microbiology, molecular biology, cell culture, flow cytometry, and ELISA.
