Research Topics
Research topics include Toxoplasma, Histomonas meleagridis and Trichomonas spp., Parelaphostrongylus tenius and Elaeophora schneideri, bear health, meso-mammal health and diseases, and wild turkey health and diseases.
Research Summary
The molecular parasitology laboratory performs classical and molecular parasitology research as well as diagnostics for parasites affecting various domestic species and wildlife. Using a One Health approach, laboratory personnel are routinely involved in field work for the collection of samples which are subsequently analyzed to generate parasite data. Ongoing research includes several avian protozoa that have significant impacts on the poultry industry and wild bird populations. Research involving other parasites includes Toxoplasma, meningeal worm (Parelaphostrongylus tenuis), arterial worm (Elaeophora scheideri), blackhead (Histomoniasis), and Trichomonas species. The molecular parasitology laboratory collaborates with universities, state and government agencies, and industry partners. This includes working in conjunction with diagnostic laboratories, including those in the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in the UT College of Veterinary Medicine, to study viral and bacterial pathogens to understand diseases of wild turkeys, cervids, bears, and various other wildlife species.
Members
- Richard Gerhold, DVM, MS, PhD
- Adri Tompros
- Laura Horton, MS
- Nicole Szafranski, DVM
- Jessie Richards, DVM, MS
- Eliza Baker, DVM
- Tania Dawant, DVM
- Katie Riese
Student Opportunities
We welcome inquires from students interested in being involved in our research.
Positions Open
There are currently no available openings, but potential openings are available for motivated and eager undergraduate students seeking research credit hours.
Funding Sources
Funding sources include BioMed Diagnostics, the Center of Excellence in Livestock Diseases and Human Health, Great Smoky Mountain National Parks, Land O’Lakes, One Health, Purina, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and the United States Department of Agriculture.
