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Virulent Rhodococcus equi decontamination strategies on horse farms

Summary

An investigation into potential disinfectant agents that could be used on farms to reduce environmental virulent Rhodococcus equi burdens.

Supervisor

Dr Gary Muscatello.

Research location

Sydney School of Veterinary Science

Program type

Masters/PHD

Synopsis

The aim of this project is to investigate disinfectant agents (such as, lime, chlorine and the common phenols and quaternary ammonia compounds) that could be used in the field to effectively kill virulent Rhodococcus equi. The experiments will commence by examining the effects of the various agents on the growth of virulent R. equi under standard culture condition, then evaluating their impact on the growth of virulent R. equi in inoculated soil samples from Thoroughbred breeding farms in the Hunter Valley. Bacterial growth will be evaluated using standard spectrophotometer methods complemented by direct dilution plating and PCR analysis to evaluate virulence of the organism. Once the laboratory findings have been evaluated, evaluation of the agent(s) in the field will be contacted. In this process the agent(s) impact will be evaluated through seasonal monitoring of the bacterial levels and the prevalence of R. equi pneumonia on participating farms. Safety issues will also be assesses in a small scale study on horse environments at the Camden campus.At the conclusion of this project, findings will indicate whether disinfectant agents could be used to reduce the concentration of virulent R. equi on Thoroughbred breeding farms and it may result in the production of national and internationally recognized management practices to reduce the significance of R. equi pneumonia in the equine breeding world.

Additional information

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 502

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