Studies the biology and epidemiology of zoonotic parasites of swine and the goal of defining production systems which reduce the risk of animal infection; develops tools to detect zoonotic parasite infection in swine; evaluates postharvest processes which inactivate zoonotic parasites in swine.

Studies biochemical, physiological, and immunological mechanisms for coccidia-induced metabolic changes in avian tissues which lead to nutrient malabsorption and reduced growth and weight gain. Investigates dietary modulations of coccidia infections. Develops methods for biological control of the black-legged tick, vector of Lyme disease.

Investigates mechanisms of cell invasion by sporozoites of avian coccidia. Studies effects of anticoccidial drugs and natural products on coccidiosis and turkey coccidia. Assesses impact of prior or concurrent infection on the behavior of the coccidia. Conducts basic research on Neospora.

Investigates methods of suppressing populations of the black-legged tick (deer tick), vector of the pathogen causing Lyme disease. Studies host-finding behavior and ecology of the black-legged tick, as they relate to tick control.

Studies immunity to and control of avian coccidiosis. Initiates strategies to improve efficiency of live oocyst vaccines. Determines degree of anticoccidial efficacy against field isolates of coccidia. Isolates and characterizes coccidial antigens and evaluates their potential for use in vaccines. Uses hybridoma antibodies and electron microscopy to determine the interaction of coccidial antigens with the host immune system. Evaluates natural products for control of avian coccidiosis.

Develops procedures to render meat and meat products safe from Toxoplasma-infection through diagnosis, epidemiology and on-farm control programs. Develops a vaccine to prevent Toxoplasma-induced abortion in livestock. Develops methods for the diagnosis and control of Neospora in domestic animals.

Conducts research on parasite physiology and biochemistry, particularly related to enzymes as targets for novel controls. Studies the impact of coccidia infections in chickens on muscle metabolism in order to develop new methods for assessing impact of treatments.

Conducts research on the molecular genetics of parasites of food animals using various biochemical methods including recombinant DNA techniques to identify and classify parasites and to develop diagnostic probes. Develops methods for the biological control of the black-legged tick, vector of Lyme disease.

Studies biochemical, immunological and physiological functions, and developmental regulation of cuticular and secretory components of helminth parasites; purifies and characterizes enzymes and enzyme inhibitors; isolates antigens for immunization and diagnostic purposes.

Develops serology-based and polymerase chain reaction-based diagnostic assays for Neospora caninum using molecular biological techniques.