P2f – Whole genome sequencing of Escherichia coli from scouring calves from geographically diverse dairy production operations in New South Wales

Scours and respiratory diseases are common causes of death in young calves. Currently, calves with scours or respiratory disease are often treated on the basis of symptoms, without identifying the microbe responsible.

This PhD project is part of Dairy UP’s Project P2f (Infectious Diseases) which aims to build a genetic catalogue that can be used by diagnostic laboratories to improve their capacity for diagnosing pathogens causing disease and determine the most appropriate treatment.

This PhD project is using whole genome sequencing to characterise the genetic make up of E. coli, to understand their molecular epidemiology, and the determinants of virulence and antimicrobial resistance.

More information:
Dr Barbara Brito Rodriquez | barbara.britorodriguez@dpi.nsw.gov.au