Projects
A Statistical Framework for the Spatio-temporal Analysis of Modern Data Types in Epidemiology and Ecology KU Leuven
Epidemiology, sero-diagnosis and control of gastrointestinal nematodes in different poultry production systems in Ethiopia Ghent University
Capillaria, Ascaridia, and Heterakis are among the economically significant Gastrointestinal Nematodes (GINs) that significantly affect the health and productivity of poultry. Anthelmintic resistance is one of a big challenge in the control of animal parasites including poultry. Proper diagnostics and good knowledge of the epidemiology are essential for the development of an effective deworming strategy. Thus, this PhD research project aims ...
Molecular Epidemiology of tuberculosis at Human-Animal interface in the pastoral areas of Ethiopia with subsequent development of improved diagnostic approach KU Leuven
Against the available diagnosis and treatment advances, tuberculosis remains a relentless disease that is one of the leading causes of death from a single infectious agent worldwide. More importantly, the highest burden of tuberculosis is attributed to low- and middle-income countries such as Ethiopia, where limited resources and high population density intersect. Since zoonotic mycobacteria have numerous host ranges that serve as ...
PhD on the epidemiology of invasive pneumococcal disease KU Leuven
The thesis project will focus on the optimization of the Whole Genome Sequencing procedure for Streptococcus pneumoniae strains. We aim to use the genomic data for deep characterization and comparison of pneumococcal strains, isolated during different time periods, different locations (including other countries), and from different body sites. Also, the potential of predicting the antimicrobial susceptibility based on genomic data will be ...
Molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance mechanism of Campylobacter species among children under the age of five with diarrhoea, domestic animals and environmental sources in Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia Ghent University
This study is aimed at determining the molecular epidemiology and mechanism of antimicrobial resistance in Campylobacter. Specimens from various sources will be analysed using molecular tools.The nutritional status of children will be measured. The study will contribute to the understanding of the epidemiology and transmission dynamics of Campylobacter and help reduce the burden of diarrhoea and malnutrition in children.
Waste-water based epidemiology as early warning system for COVID-19 surveillance Ghent University
By screening SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater, we want to offer a complementary non-invasive indicator to map and monitor COVID-19 in Flanders.
Epidemiology of Chlamydia psittaci infections on chicken farms Ghent University
Chlamydia psittaci causes respiratory disease in chickens. The infection is highly prevalent on Belgian broiler farms. We will examine the epidemiology of C. psittaci infections on Belgian poultry farms.
Triazole-resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus: evolving epidemiology and influence on disease progression. KU Leuven
Aspergilli are ubiquitous fungi found in the environment and cause a whole spectrum of human diseases including invasive life threatening infections in immunocompromised hosts, like cancer or transplant patients. Triazole antifungal drugs are currently the cornerstones of prophylaxis and treatment of Aspergillus-related diseases but global emergence of triazole resistance is a concern. Exposure of Aspergillus fumigatus to ...