Karen Liljebjelke, DVM, PhD
PhD in Infectious Diseases Poultry Diagnostic Research Center University of Georgia, USADVM College of Veterinary Medicine University of Georgia, USA
M Sc in Plant Biology School of Biological Sciences Washington State University, USA
B Sc in Plant Biology College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Cornell University, USA
Areas of Research
The long-term objective of my research program is to understand the genetic ecology of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria found in food animal production. My research program ultimately aims to provide information useful to animal agriculture for making prudent decisions regarding antibiotic usage in order to reduce antibiotic resistance in food borne pathogens while preserving animal health and welfare. My laboratory uses interdisciplinary approaches such as molecular genetics, genomics, and biochemical tools.
My laboratory examines the phenotypes and genotypes of antimicrobial resistance of food borne pathogens, bovine respiratory disease pathogens, and environmental bacteria present in food animal production and processing facilities. One current research project is examining antimicrobial resistance and mobile genetic elements in food borne bacterial pathogens isolated from retail meats and poultry production facilities. Another research project involves using metagenomic approaches to examine the microbial populations present on broiler carcasses and in the litter from poultry barns.
The laboratory examines the ability of environmental bacteria isolated from food animal production and processing facilities to form biofilm, and the effect of biofilm production on antimicrobial resistance.
I have published studies examining the ecology of Salmonella enterica serotypes in poultry production and processing. I continue to conduct research in the areas of Salmonella enterica genetics and pathogenesis.
Supervising degrees
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Working with this supervisor
This supervisor is currently seeking both MSc and Ph.D. program graduate students for two research projects. The students who have successfully completed their graduate programs in my laboratory have been creative, resourceful, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.
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