One Health Microbiology
We recognise that human health is intimately linked with the health of the environment and of other animals.
Our research covers a broad range of microbes and viruses that infect both animals and humans; we also study their survival in the environment. We have significant expertise in viral infections of farm animals and in modifying the microbiome of animals to exclude pathogens from the food chain.
In order to minimise use of antibiotics and find more sustainable approaches for global food security, probiotics have emerged as a strategy to improve animal health, welfare and production.
We investigate the structure and functions of gut microbial communities. We have a particular interest in pigs, during critical periods such as peri-weaning and peri-partum. The shifts in bacterial community structure and host-cell immune response which accompany dietary changes have the potential to affect host wellbeing.