Research aim and focus

The general aim is to carry out and disseminate basic and applied research concerning the microbiota of the intestinal tract in relation to animal health, feed utilization and impact on the environment and climate, including the importance for immune development, as well as immunity regulation especially with a view to preventing disease. Focus is on the interaction between nutrition and bioactive components in the food, the composition of the microbiota and the derived gut immunological and systemic effects. 

Primary focus areas

• The interaction between microbiota, host and nutrition in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Basic work with disease prevention, infection biology, immune-regulation and vaccination strategies.
• Establishment, development and composition of the microbiota and microbial activity of the gastro (ruminal) intestinal tract.
• Development of animal models and relevant techniques to prevent infectious and production diseases.

Key disciplines

Microbiology; Immunology; Molecular biology; Nutrition; Pathobiology.

Research perspectives

The general vision is to contribute with detailed knowledge of the immune system and the microbial ecosystem in the gastrointestinal tract, which constitutes the basis for disease prevention and optimal animal welfare as well as a sustainable livestock production.