Prevalence, etiology, control and prevention of clinical mastitis and associated antimicrobial use

Reference

MED1615

Closing Date

Saturday, 13th August 2022

Department

Veterinary Medicine & Science

Principal supervisor: Dr Peter Down

Other supervisors: Dr Pablo Silva Boloña, Prof. Martin Green

Background: The School of Veterinary Medicine and Science (SVMS) undertakes research on many key aspects of companion animals and livestock health and production. Research at the School is integrated into the University structure with established world class research in biomedical sciences within the other University Schools.  Research undertaken at the School is relevant to both Veterinary Medicine and Science and Comparative and Human Medicine.

Project description: Mastitis is one of the most economically important diseases affecting adult dairy cattle. It has a major impact on animal welfare and milk production, resulting in high economic losses for both farmers and processors. Mastitis is also a significant driver of antimicrobial use in adult dairy cows. This represents a societal challenge due to the potential for the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria resulting from their use. Most mammary gland infections in Ireland are caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium that spreads from infected to uninfected glands mainly during the milking process, and by Streptococcus uberis, a bacterium found mostly in the environment. The purpose of this research project is to evaluate the prevalence, infection dynamics and disease mechanisms of the major strains of the most common mastitis causing bacteria in Ireland. Additionally, we aim to evaluate antimicrobial use, treatment efficacy, and antimicrobial resistance and to understand the factors associated with these infections and with their effective prevention and management.

This PhD Fellowship is a joint research project between Teagasc Moorepark and the University of Nottingham. The successful candidate will be based in the Teagasc Research Centre at Moorepark, Co. Cork, Ireland. The candidate will have to travel to the University of Nottingham to accomplish both their academic and research objectives. The successful candidate will be registered at University of Nottingham.

Further information and Application

Applicants should have a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree or a minimum of a 2.2 degree and a Master’s degree in Agriculture, Animal Science, Veterinary Science, Nutrition or similar subjects. 

Informal enquiries may be addressed to the principal supervisor: Dr Peter Down ([email protected])

Candidates should apply online and include a CV.  When completing the online application form, please select the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, then PhD Veterinary Medicine and Science (48m) and, once submitted, send your student ID number to [email protected].

Any queries regarding the application process should be addressed to the Continuing Education Team, (email: [email protected]).

Interview Date: 

TBC

Start Date: 

1st October 2022 or as soon as possible thereafter

Closing date: 

The position will be filled when suitable candidates have been identified.  Early application is strongly encouraged.

Eligibility for Funding

This is a fully funded studentship open to applications from UK and ROI nationals.  If you have a different nationality or immigration status that you would like to discuss, please do get in touch.