Madhawa Alahakoon
Graduate Student, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, WCVMProfile
- Program: MSc student
- Supervisor: Dr. Nathan Erickson, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, WCVM
- Home community: Edmonton, Alta.
Academic Credentials
- BSc, University of Alberta, 2021
Bio Summary
Madhawa Alahakoon earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Alberta in 2021. As part of his Master of Science (MSc) program, Madhawa’s research aims to enhance immune fitness in beef calves and support the long-term viability of the livestock industry.
Research Area(s)
Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a multifactorial condition characterized by bacterial, viral and combined infections of the upper and lower respiratory tracts in cattle. This condition leads to severe respiratory illness and significant economic losses in the cow-calf industry.
In my study, I am measuring viral RNA densities using real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR), assessing cell and antibody-mediated immune responses, and evaluating the stress responses of calves. The overall objectives of this study include the following: developing effective vaccine management strategies for BRD, improving animal health and reducing the financial burden on the beef industry.