Parasitologic studies on great bustard

A doctoral student is conducting research into the parasites, which are found in the edagered great bustard. The great bustard is native to our region. In close cooperation with the members of the Förderverein Großtrappen e.V., fecal samples were collected from free-living birds, stationary patients and reared birds. Those samples are examined in regard to their significance for the wild population. Deceased animals are examined pathologically. The results are intended to contribute to Great Bustard conservation projects.

Stressed chicken scale

A scale for assessing stress in chickens was developed as part of a doctoral thesis. This Stressed Chicken Scale (SCS) shows a side view a chickens displaying certain body signals that are described in the poultry literature in connection with discomfort. Scales such as these are used in the field of laboratory animal research, e.g. in the form of facial expressions/grimace scales. However, they can also be a usefull tool for training and educational purpose. 

In the further course of the project, it is planned to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) in cooperation with colleagues from the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), with which an automated stress assessment of chicken should be possible.

Antimicrobial resistances in backyard poultry

Hobby chickens bring rural life to urban living environments and with them potentially invisible roommates: antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The aim of this dissertation is to systematically investigate the occurrence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens in privately kept chickens, their resistance profiles, potential transmission routes, and associated One Health measures to protect chickens and humans. 

Catching, carrying, and loading chickens

Whether it's for relocation, vaccination, or slaughter, there's one thing no chicken can avoid: transport. The catching, carrying, and loading of commercial poultry represents a fundamental interface between animal welfare, employee health, and logistical challenges. The effects of various manual capture and transport methods are examined within the dissertation project at the individual animal and flock level, considering also as well as with regard to social and economic aspects.

Impact of Ascaridia galli on vaccination and bacterial coinfections in chickens

This research project addresses the influence of the intestinal nematode Ascaridia galli on immune responses, gastrointestinal health, and bacterial coinfections in chickens. Owing to its high prevalence in laying hens, particularly in free-range and organic production systems, A. galli represents an important challenge for poultry health and food safety. The project focuses especially on the interaction between helminth infection and Salmonella Enteritidis, a zoonotic pathogen of major relevance in poultry production.

A central objective is to determine whether A. galli alters adaptive immune responses in vaccinated hens and thereby affects the efficacy of vaccination. In addition, the project examines how helminth infection modifies the intestinal environment, including local immune regulation, barrier integrity, and susceptibility to bacterial colonization and persistence.

As part of RTG 3096, the project is embedded in a One Health framework that links animal health, zoonotic infection, and translational research. The work combines in vitro intestinal chicken models, on-farm investigations, and controlled experimental infection studies. This project aims to generate knowledge that supports improved vaccination strategies, reduced pathogen shedding, and sustainable poultry health management in commercial and alternative production settings alike.

Other projects

Other projects deal with investigations into the occurrence, characterization and importance of avian adenoviruses in poultry and investigations into the occurrence of viruses in connection with hepatitis in turkeys.