The Produce Safety and Microbiology Research Unit conducts research on microbial pathogens which have been associated with foodborne illness.
Study of microbial association with the environment and food is essential for food safety.
A portion of the research involves investigation of microbial pathogens in the environment including soil, water, and animals both domesticated, and wild.
Field samples are brought to the laboratory microbial strains are isolated for study.
Microbial pathogens under study include isolates associated with known outbreaks, as well as samples collected in the field.
Mission
The Produce Safety and Microbiology Research Unit conducts fundamental and applied research to improve the safety of the food supply and animal health. Molecular, biochemical, and analytical research approaches are used in understanding interactions between pathogens and food and in developing novel interventions to remove or minimize contamination by foodborne pathogens. Genomic and proteomic methods are employed for the detection, identification, and characterization of microorganisms and to assist in investigations and source-tracking studies of production environments and associated risk factors. Immune and non-immune-based tools are developed to improve early detection of animal disease-causing agents. Our research will promote increased options to enhance food safety by producers, a safer food supply for the consumer, and healthy animals for farmers.People
