Brandon Lillie

Programs

Pathobiology and Bioinformatics

About my research:

My research focuses primarily on the genetic regulation of innate immunity in animals, with a particular focus on innate immune pattern recognition proteins. As a veterinary anatomic pathologist, I'm also involved in animal disease diagnostics, which leads to other research projects in domestic animals, including investigating the geographic distribution of novel pathogens and their role in diseases.

How my research can improve life:

Innate immunity provides broad immunity to the range of pathogens an animal (or human) is exposed to. If we can better understand the genetic regulation of innate immunity in animals and identify genetic deficiencies, then we can use that information in genetic selection programs in production animals to improve innate immunity which will improve animal health and welfare, improve productivity for our livestock industries, and reduce the use of antimicrobials in livestock production, which will help in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance.

Why choose grad studies at U of G?

The University of Guelph is a global expert in veterinary medicine and disease research. Students who join my grad program will work in a multi-faculty lab with many other students and will be exposed to a broad range of science and techniques, not just their own program.  I believe that grad school is about the student, not the project, and the ideal outcome is a student who is able to go forward in their career and use the knowledge they gained to tackle the problems of the future. I also foster a strong social support network within my research group/department as it's important to have connections and the support of a large group of colleagues (other students, staff, and faculty - we're all colleagues!) and have people that you enjoy working with.