Epidemiology and distribution of parasites of animal-specific and zoonotic importance in pig farms in northern Italy.
The aim of the project is to plan a study on gastrointestinal parasites of pigs on intensive farms in Italy to update epidemiological data on the prevalence of parasites and to assess the presence of protozoa and microsporidia of both animal-specific and zoonotic interest, thus characterizing their zoonotic risk.
The Early-Stage Researcher (ESR) will select several farms located in northern Italy in different regions and provinces to estimate the parasite distribution. The student will organize the project into different work packages, which she will complete over the course of the three years. The student will cooperate with freelance veterinarians to collect biological samples, including both feces and blood. For each selected farm the ESR will fill out a questionnaire with the aim of collecting data on production, health management and farm biosecurity.
For laboratory analyses, the ESR will use coprological methods (Flotac technique and sedimentation) to search for the different parasites included in this project. Then, she will identify the class of parasites involved and trace individual species, genotypes, variants, and assemblages of parasites using molecular techniques. Thus, the candidate will have the opportunity to evaluate and obtain a picture of the prevalences of parasites of animal-specific and zoonotic importance in italian pig farms.
The ESR will be enrolled at the University of Milan (UNIMI) under the supervision of Prof. Maria Teresa Manfredi. At least three months of the course will be spent in foreign universities where the candidate will refine knowledge and manual skills of molecular methods. The student will participate in the diagnostic, teaching and research activities of the Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases. She will also have the opportunity to participate in a scientific conference and publish articles in peer-reviewed journals.
Master’s Degree in Veterinary Medicine at University of Milan (UNIMI).
Postgraduate Fellowship period in the laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases of the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS) of University of Milan (UNIMI). During this period, she had the opportunity to learn the main parasitological techniques applied to diagnostics and research.
Postgraduate Internship in a Small Animal Veterinary Clinic in which she gained practical experience in both clinical and laboratory activities.
Master thesis on the main zoonotic parasites in wild boars. Around this time, she attended the laboratory of Parasitology of University developing interest and curiosity about this field applied to research.
Deep interest in in Parasitology and parasitic Diseases of medical, veterinary and animal husbandry.
Publications: Orcid ; Scopus ; IRIS-AIR
Supervisor Prof. Maria Teresa Manfredi