Evaluating the health risks of zoonotic diseases in fish farms: implications for human and animal well-being in the context of climate change

Supervisors: 

Dr Michael Ormsby, School of Infection & Immunity (University of Glasgow)

Dr Taya Forde, School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, (University of Glasgow)

Dr Suzanne Humphrey, School of Infection & Immunity (University of Glasgow)

Summary: 

This PhD project aims to investigate the role of aquaculture environments as reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens, focusing on how these environments contribute to the persistence and spread of infectious diseases that threaten both human and animal health. The research will involve manipulating climate parameters such as temperature, pH, and salinity to evaluate how these affect the ability of the zoonotic pathogens Streptococcus iniae, Edwardsiella tarda, and Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) to adhere to and persist on materials found in fish farm environments. Additionally, the project will employ comparative genomics to assess the impact of climate change on pathogen dynamics and genetic exchange to understand the potential emergence of antibiotic-resistant and hyper-virulent strains. The candidate will gain comprehensive training in environmental microbiology, genomics, and epidemiology.

They will develop expertise in field sampling, laboratory techniques, and bioinformatics, equipping them with the skills needed to analyse complex datasets and interpret the implications for public health and aquaculture sustainability. The project will also provide opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and the application of research findings to real-world challenges in global health and food security.