Bovine Theileriosis Innovator Rewarded

AUSTRALIA - It might not be long before farmers are able to more easily diagnose and act to protect their herds against bovine theileriosis – a disease similar to malaria in humans – thanks to the research of Dr Abdul Jabbar.
calendar icon 18 March 2013
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Dr Jabbar was recently awarded the Dairy Australia Science and Innovation Award and was a finalist for the 2013 Science and Innovation Awards for Young People in Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

Currently, the parasite has affected herds in pockets across Australia. At this stage there are no rapid, accurate diagnostic tests available for livestock producers nor is there a vaccine.

Dr Jabbar said he was pleased to win and will use the $22,000 for his research into creating a rapid, cost-effective diagnostic tool for regular monitoring and surveillance of theileriosis, underpinning better control and prevention of the disease.

“Preliminary research has shown that the bovine theileriosis parasite is in Victoria,” Dr Jabbar said. “This award will further support my research into the disease.”

At the moment, the parasite has affected herds in pockets of the industry and this research will help manage the spread.
Dairy Australia’s Program Manager Product Innovation, Dr Mani Iyer said Dairy Australia was pleased to be involved and help support innovative research.

“Dairy Australia is committed to supporting innovative young people and encouraging them to work in the dairy industry,” Dr Iyer said.

The Science and Innovation Awards for Young People in Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry provides recipients with grants of up to $22,000 each to undertake a project exploring an emerging scientific issue or innovation over a 12 month period.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, presented the awards at a gala dinner at the Outlook 2013 conference in Canberra for the agriculture sector. Minister Ludwig said the Awards have been encouraging young researchers and innovators in science, innovation and technology in rural industries since 2001.

“With the objective of keeping Australia’s rural industries sustainable and profitable, the Awards turn ideas into a reality, at the same time showcasing the individual talents of our young scientists to the world,” Minister Ludwig said.

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