Emerging parasitic disease: epidemiological, diagnostic and experimental approach

Summary

The project Emerging parasitic diseases: epidemiological, diagnostic and experimental approach will focus on development and elucidation of the epidemiology of newly or neglected disease in veterinary parasitology including (i) haemo- / tissue- parasites (Atoxoplasma, Babesia) and (ii) gastrointestinal parasites (Giardia, Cryptosporidium, Tritrichomonas).

Supervisor

Professor Jan Slapeta.

Research location

Sydney School of Veterinary Science

Program type

Masters/PHD

Synopsis

The project Emerging parasitic disease: epidemiological, diagnostic and experimental approach will focus on development and elucidation of the epidemiology of newly or neglected disease in veterinary parasitology including (i) haemo- / tissue- parasites (Atoxoplasma, Babesia) and (ii) gastrointestinal parasites (Giardia, Cryptosporidium, Tritrichomonas). This project aims to elucidate the molecular identity and relationships between different isolates using PCR diagnostic techniques using rDNA and protein coding genes. On the other hand, this study will deliver and validate the PCR diagnostic protocol for epidemiological studies and elucidating the biology of these organisms. This investigation will develop a collection of diagnostic procedures accurately and rapidly identifying the causative parasite. The investigation will be developed with close relationship with clinicians to deliver clinically meaningful applications. The study will further investigate the impact of the diagnosed agents onto the host population to reconstruct the epidemiology of the disease. To elucidate the causality of these agents an experimental studies will be conducted to provide direct evidence of the pathogen impact on the host. This presents opportunities for PhD topic projects: (1) Development of diagnostic procedures and DNA based techniques; (2) Epidemiological, clinical and host interaction issues and (3) Experimental study on laboratory animals to elucidate the hosts specificity.

Additional information

Techniques used in the project:(1) Development of diagnostic procedures and DNA based techniques;

• Molecular biology diagnostic techniques: DNA isolation, PCR, cloning etc.

(2) Epidemiological, clinical and host interaction issues

• DNA based species identification, literacy in parasitic condition
• Collaboration and interaction with a clinicians and clients

(3) Experimental study on laboratory animals to elucidate the hosts specificity

•  Isolation and culturing of the pathogen, cell-culture, experimental propagation

HDR Inherent Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

- Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
- Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
- Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
- Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
- Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
- Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
- Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
- Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
- Hold a current scuba diving license;
- Hold a current Working with Children Check;
- Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 149

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