Our lab studies poultry nutrition and health with a focus on diet, host (immunity) and the microbiome. With the ban and limitation in the use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs), gut health research has become integral in finding new alternatives to AGPs. We seek to understand the complex dynamics in the gut that lead to gut health stresses, and diseases such as necrotic enteritis, coccidiosis and dysbacteriosis. Our lab also studies avian immunology with a focus on the development of the immune system, and the functional immune response to bacterial and viral pathogens. The ultimate goal of our lab is to develop solutions for improved health, performance and welfare of chickens, while also ensuring a safer food supply.