Managing risk: Studies of the biology and epidemiology of bluetongue viruses and their vectors in NSW

Background

Bluetongue infections of livestock are important for both animal health and trade. Bluetongue viruses (BTVs) have in recent years assumed a high profile because of unprecedented disease outbreaks in Western Europe, the Scandinavian countries and England. Higher than average temperatures are believed to have aided the infection of local midge species - that are widespread in Europe but not previously known to be competent vector species - by introduced serotypes. This situation could be repeated in NSW, where there is an interface between the distribution of BTVs and susceptible sheep and cattle populations, with further impacts on trade and the risk of disease outbreaks. It is important that the distribution of both viruses and insects in NSW are closely monitored using the most sensitive and efficient tools that are available, so that risks can be appropriately managed, the livestock industries alerted and control measures implemented.

Supporting project and supervisors

Meat and Livestock Australia, in conjunction with Industry & Investment NSW have recently funded a major project at Elizabeth MacArthur Agricultural Institute to develop new diagnostic tools for the rapid identification of insect vectors and for the detection of bluetongue viruses. This project is being augmented by the addition of a PhD student, jointly supervised by Dr Peter Kirkland (Virology Laboratory, EMAI) and Prof Michael Ward (Chair, Veterinary Public Health, The University of Sydney) in collaboration with Dr Deb Finlaison (Virologist, EMAI) and Dr Adrian Nicholas (Entomologist, I & I NSW). This scholarship is funded by the NSW Centre for Animal and Plant Biosecurity - an alliance between Industry & Investment NSW and the University of Sydney to develop and apply cutting-edge science to address biosecurity issues.

Project outline

The first stage of the existing MLA project will develop rapid assays for the identification of midges. Prototype real time PCR (qPCR) assays, already available, will be validated by early 2011. The successful PhD candidate will be engaged to conduct population studies based on these assays. To date, because of existing technology, studies have been limited in scope and extent. These new assays will allow a range of planned, prospective studies to be undertaken that will advance our knowledge of BTV biology and distribution. Depending on the previous training and interests of the candidate, studies could include:

• Estimation of the number of midges in a light trap collection based on qPCR reactivity;
• Discovery of the overwintering mechanism of BTVs;
• Create models to predict the early expansion and spread of midge populations;
• Develop and evaluate systems to experimentally feed insects on BTV infected blood;
• Determine capacity of local NSW midges to transmit virulent, Northern Australian strains of BTV.

The candidate

The successful candidate must have completed an undergraduate degree in biomedical or veterinary sciences, have research experience (Honours or Master’s degree), good analytical and communication skills, and be prepared to undertake both laboratory and field-based studies. The candidate will be based at either EMAI Menangle or The Faculty of Veterinary Science Camden, with time spent at both institutions as required. A PhD stipend of $35,000 p.a. (tax-free for full-time students) is available to support this position.

Contacts: 

• Michael Ward, michael.ward@sydney.edu.au; (02) 9351 1607
• Peter Kirkland, peter.kirkland@industry.nsw.gov.au; (02) 4640 6331

Closing Date:  30 November 2010

See media release - Scholarship heralds opportunities for future biosecurity researchers.