Microbiology

Major Research Themes

• Ecology and genetics of microorganisms in the rumen and gastrointestinal tract of domestic livestock
• Molecular diagnostic technologies for food safety
• Microbial interactions in integrated waste management systems

Research Programmes

• Genetic diversity of microorganisms in the rumen and gastrointestinal tract or on fresh or processed meats
  Diversity within the 16S rRNA genes permits studies of microbial ecology within mixed populations. These studies focus on the interactions between microorganisms and how they function in complex communities and biofilms.

• Microbial mechanisms of tannin resistance in ruminants
  Tannins are plant products that inhibit digestion in livestock. Some microorganisms are resistant to tannins. This program focuses on discovering and studying the microbial mechanisms of tannin resistance and their genetic controls.
• Chemical fractionation and analysis of anti-nutritive factors in livestock feeds
  This study is aimed at correlating chemical structures, biochemical mechanisms and animal studies to identify anti-nutritive compounds, including tannins, in forages.

• Isolation and identification of microorganisms that alleviate antinutritional effects of plant secondary products
  Microorganisms that display resistance to toxic effects of tannins, non-Protein amino acids and other antinutritive factors are being identified, characterised and studied to determine the biochemical mechanisms and genetics of resistance.

• The selection of microbial communities for integrated waste management strategies.
  Environmentally sustainable industries require effective waste management strategies. This is particularly important in the intensive industries. We are working with several animal and horticultural industries to improve waste management through the development of integrated strategies involving microbial treatments, engineering desi biochemical treatments and natural wetlands systems. The microbiological research focuses on selecting and studying complex bacterial communities from animals and soil, using a combination of classical and molecular technologies

• The development of rapid assays for detecting microbial contaminants in food.
  Food safety is a high priority issue, particularly in developing countries. We are interested in developing rapid, molecular assay procedures for detecting microbial contamination of food, particularly meats and fish. These techniques can also be used to monitor meat handling and processing procedures. Techniques include fluorescence and luminescence detection systems, biomonitor development and real-time imaging