Modelling Anthelmintic Resistance in Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Goats in Uganda: Strategies for Sustainable Parasite Management

Background: 

Goats are Uganda's most numerous farming species, and a fundamental source of livelihood and food security among smallholder households⁽¹⁾. However, gastro-intestinal nematodes (GINs) are a production-limiting concern. A previous cross-sectional study⁽²⁾ indicated anthelmintic resistance (AR) to the most common drugs used. Our research aims to expand existing knowledge⁽²⁾ to identify, validate and model alternative strategies for the effective control of GINs in understudied goats in Uganda. 

Objectives: 

·      O1. Identification of alternative control methods (months 1-6): by surveying indigenous knowledge, adequate control treatments will be selected and standardised. 

·      O2. Assessment and validation of control techniques (months 7-30): efficacy of selected methods will be assessed. 

·      O3. Development of GIN resistance models (months 25-42): mathematical models will be created to assess parasitic burden and role of environmental, weather/climatic and husbandry factors. 

Methods:  

A survey will be distributed among farmers in four districts to gather local knowledge on controlling GINs (O1). Additionally, 192 goats from eight farms will be selected for a prevalence study to inform a longitudinal assessment of alternative treatments. Blood and faecal samples will also be collected monthly from 96 goats for up to 12 months to assess anaemia and fluctuations of GINs over time. Subsequent PCR analysis of selected samples will identify GIN species and potential resistance markers (O2). Longitudinal models⁽³⁾ including time-to-event analysis and diversity analysis of GIN will be developed to elucidate the importance of different factors involved in AR in goats (O3).

Impact: 

Prevention of anthelminthic resistance and heritage conservation: Alternative control methods will be standardised, thus conserving Ugandan indigenous technical knowledge before it becomes extinct. Greater farmer’s capacity building on optimised control methods, husbandry, animal health. Increased productivity with higher yield and improved food security. Source of biobanking samples for future studies.

Funding information and application procedures:

This 3.5 year studentship opportunity is open to UK and international students and provides funding to cover stipend, tuition fees and consumable/travel costs. 

Application form can be downloaded via https://vet.ed.ac.uk/sites/default/files/2024-12/R%28D%29SVS%20and%20Roslin%20Foundation%20PhD%20studentship%20application%20form_0.docx

Please send your completed Application Form to RDSVS.Studentship.Applications@ed.ac.uk

If you are applying for more than one studentship please submit a separate application with a closing date of noon on 13^th February 2025 at Studentships | The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies