AWARDS ARCHIVE
A historical list of past funded research projects
Changes in Swine Fecal Microbiome and Resistome Associated with Herd
Introduction and After Artificial Insemination with Semen Containing Preservation
Level Antibiotics
$63,138
Determine temporal changes in microbiome and resistome in fecal samples of gilts after
their introduction into an organic herd and after insemination with extended semen
containing typical preservative-level antibiotics.
Dr. L. Brito
UPenn
Improve Speed, Accessibility and Knowledge of Animal Pathogen Sequencing
$48,855
Improving procedures for and access to genome sequencing of viruses providing critical
information about how these viruses change and spread.
Dr. R. Nissly
PSU
Develop Bed Bug Monitoring Tools for Poultry Facilities
$135,139
Provide practical monitoring tools that can be used by producers and could be used for
scale evaluation of bed bug control medications.
Dr. E. Machtinger
PSU
Effect of Litter Amendment & Enrichment on Footpad Health in Broiler Flocks
$11,573
Elucidate the effects of various enrichment objects as well as litter conditions and
amendments on the occurrence and severity of Footpad dermatitis, breast blisters and
hock burns in growing broilers.
Dr. M. Pierdon
UPenn
Mitigating Pain in Pig Castration
$183,230
Propose the development of an effective, practical and cost-efficient method to treat
castration pain in pigs.
Dr. T Parsons
UPenn
Genetic Diversity- AI After Vaccination Using Next Gen Sequencing
$48,411
Help define the genetic pressure placed on IBVs contained with vaccine. Findings will
address effective vaccinations and improve strategies for diagnosis and control of IBV
infections in chickens.
Dr. A Schmitt
PSU
On-Road Transport Equipment Biosecurity Reimbursement Program
$47,842
Provide companies with the proper biosecure equipment to protect farms from lateral virus
spread.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
Farm Animal Emergency Response- Certificate Program for Animal Shelters
$12,500
Provide a professional and educated response by animal protection organizations who
play a critical role in assisting responding authorities with sheltering farm animals in
emergencies.
C. Shelly
Animal Crime Institute, LLC
Justification for Small Ruminant Extension Specialist position at Penn State
University
$5,000
Assess the current scope of the sheep and goat industry, economic impact, and existing
PSU Extension personnel with expertise to support the industry. Provide justification to
PSU administration for hiring a Small Ruminant Extension Specialist.
Dr. R. Mikesell
Penn State University
2023 Sheep and Goat Management Calendar
$5,500
Create 2023 Small Ruminant calendars to include marketing advice and best
management practices.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
Disease Awareness- Public Information Distribution
$50,000
Create and purchase ad space in public engaging news outlets to inform the public of
disease threats, how to respond, and where to access more information.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
AI Readiness Response Supplies
$100,000
Equip Pennsylvania with Avian Influenza response supplies.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
Spanish Course for Poultry and Swine
$130,000
Curriculum creation for beginner and intermediate Spanish language courses.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
Educators Ag Institute- Ag Crate Project for Poultry, Swine, and Sheep
$8,500
Provide educator resources on swine, poultry, and sheep.
C. Espenshade
Friends of Ag Foundation- Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
Pennsylvania Sheep and Goat Quality Assurance Program
$84,533
Evaluate existing quality assurance programs to develop a set of goals for a small
ruminant quality assurance program in the state of Pennsylvania.
Dr. W. Fritz
Delaware Valley University
Influence of Vitamin A and D on Milk Quality and Piglet Health
$28,332
Conduct an applied research project that investigates the effect of Vitamin A and D
administration to the sow during late gestation on milk quality and immune function of the
piglet.
Dr. E. Hines
Penn State University
Swine Microbiome and Resistome After Insemination with Semen Containing
Antibiotics
$56,262
Provide empirical data that supports best AI practices for porcine producers in
Pennsylvania and provide a better understanding to agriculture's role in antibiotic
stewardship.
Dr. L. Brito
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
Assessment of Animal Welfare and Behavioral Impacts on Commercial Laying
Hens Infested with Bed Bugs
$20,795
Determine the effect of bed bugs on layer chicken welfare through behavioral and
physiological measures. Use free image analysis software, "ImageJ" for bed bug
quantification.
Dr. M. Pierdon
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
One Health Task Force
$2,000
Connect human, animal, and environmental health stakeholders.
Dr. J. Holt
Determining the Size and Scope of USDA-exempted Poultry Processing in PA
$109,213
Assess the level of disease threat and biosecurity issues surrounding small-scale
producers and subsequent extension programming to directly address concerns.
Dr. J. Boney
Penn State University
Deciphering the Role of Gut Microbiome in Reducing Haemonchus Contorus
Infestation in PA's Small Ruminant Herds
$89,500
Understand the role of Haemonchus contortus microbiome interactions in small ruminants
and identify therapeutic interventions to promote health, reduce parasitic burden, and
improve production and welfare.
Dr. D. Pitta
Penn State University
Investigation into the Cause of Pheasant Hepatopathy Syndrome
$49,486
Identification of affected and control of flocks, Metagenomics, and Electron Microscopy.
Dr. M. Lighty
Penn State University
A Simple Sample Locator for Poultry
$15,882
Create a simple chart-type tool to help professionals of the poultry industry to determine
which are the most suitable samples to submit to the diagnostic laboratory depending on
the suspected condition.
Dr. G. Lorenzoni
Penn State University
Evaluation of Vaccination for Egg Drop Syndrome Infection Using real-time PCR
Testing and a Commercial ELISA in Layers on EDS affected Farms in PA
$18,337
Evaluate antibody response to EDS vaccination in layer flocks and evaluate viral shedding
in EDS vaccinated layers using real-time PCR testing.
Dr. S. Davison & Dr. Anis
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
Establish a Secure Food Supply Program in PA
$84,760
Complete 150 food supply plans and provide cost-share opportunities for plan
development and installation of best management practices.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
SWOT of Animal Agriculture in Commonwealth of PA
$49,994
Dr. C. Gambino
Delaware Valley University
Surveillance and Genetic Characterization of Infectious Bronchitis Viruses from
Commercial Chicken Flocks in PA
$49,954
Map the geographic distribution of Infectious Bronchitis Virus strains across Pennsylvania
and identify high-risk regions for IBV.
Dr. M. Lighty
Penn State University
Avian Medicine and Pathology Residence Program at Penn State University
$138,794
Equip an avian medicine and pathology resident to function independently in a diagnostic,
technical support, research, or veterinary setting.
Dr. M. Lighty
Penn State University
Surveillance of Egg Drop Syndrome (EDS) Infection Using Commercial ELISA
$8,063
Conduct initial surveillance of PA layer flocks for antibodies to EDS using the Biocheck
EDS ELISA.
Dr. E. Anis & Dr. S. Davison
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
Development of a Rapid Molecular Typing Technique to Track Gallibacterium
anatis in Layer Poultry Farms
$30,000
Develop simple molecular typing technique to track G. anatis in poultry farms and identify
genes to understand emergence of antimicrobial resistance.
H. Lu
Penn State University
Expanding the Penn State Butcher School
$42,446
Conduct formal butcher training, including strong segments of theory and hands-on
experience.
Dr. J. Campbell
Penn State University
Field Scale Research Controlling Internal Parasites of Goats with Sericera
Lespedeza in PA
$10,000
Determine if AU Grazer Sericera Lespedeza can be an effective non-chemical, antiparasitic,
that combined with best management practices, can contribute to the reduction
and control of internal parasites.
G. Cauffman
Pure American Naturals
Poultry Bed Bug Surveillance, Identification, and Outreach
$81,636
Survey to better-understand the extent of bed bugs, verify identification, and outreach,
education, and training on biology, life cycle, and control measures for bed bugs in poultry
facilities.
Dr. P. Patterson
Penn State University
Screening for Egg Drop Syndrome Infection Using PCR & Commercial ELISA
$12,093
Validate real-time PCR for detection of EDS virus and commercially-available ELISA for
detection of antibodies to EDS.
Dr. E. Anis
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton Center
PA Food Animal Processing Strategic Needs Assessment
$65,723
Identifying and connecting gaps within PA's Food Animal Processing industry.
Dr. C. Gambino
Delaware Valley University
User Friendly Veterinary Telemedicine Service
$99,979
Collecting and analyzing data on the capabilities and limitations of telemedicine veterinary
services specific to livestock/poultry practice in rural areas of Pennsylvania.
Dr. G. Patterson
VetNow
Improving Biosecurity within the Commonwealth of PA
$48,000
Piloting a biosecurity tool, "Barn360."
Dr. B. Mason
Country View Family Farms
Training for Disease Response in the PA Swine Industry
$95,700
Building the human knowledge base and local infrastructure needed to deal with a high
consequence disease outbreak in the swine population.
Dr. E. Hines and C. Williams
Penn State University
Establishing PCR Assays for Detection of Infectious Bronchitis Virus Serotypes
$84,152
Developing molecular diagnostic tests for the typing of avian infectious bronchitis virus
isolates.
Dr. S. Kuchipudi
Penn State University
Poultry Welfare and Production Medicine Fellowship at Clinical Studies
$174,979
Post Grad training for vet with interest in poultry to develop skills needed for diagnostics, animal welfare and industry connections.
Dr. M. Pierdon
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton Center
Youth Biosecurity and Protection of Livestock Industry
$21,200
Target jackpot show exhibitors with need for biosecurity to protect all of Pennsylvania
livestock.
J. Darr
PA Pork Strategic Investment Program
Secure Pork Supply Training
$14,550
Biosecurity training to swine producers throughout Commonwealth - topics include
paperwork, disease, etc.
Dr. E. Hines
Penn State Extension
Depopulation Readiness
$22,295
Equip animal ag in Lancaster, Mifflin and Juniata Counties to ensure they have the
necessary equipment in the event of an animal health challenge.
Dr. G. Martin
Penn State Extension, Lancaster County
Capturing Newly Emerging Markets: How Best to Manage Post-Weaned Sows
$99,968
Evaluating the details of Prop 12 in California and how that would impact Pennsylvania
pork production.
Dr. T. Parsons
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton Center
Strategic Analysis of Poultry and Livestock Health Issues in PA
$50,000
Comprehensive look across the Commonwealth as to what is needed for poultry, swine,
lambs, sheep and goats.
Dr. D. Wolfgang
Previous State Veterinarian/Penn State University
Assessment of Animal Welfare and Behavioral Impacts on Commercial Laying HensInfested with Bed Bugs
$20,795
This study added to the information available about bed bugs and their effect on laying hens’ health, welfare, and production to help quantify the total cost of an infestation.
Dr. M. Pierdon
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
Determining the Size and Scope of USDA-Exempted Poultry Processing in Pennsylvania
$109,213
The findings reveal a gap in awareness regarding USDA exemptions, which is partly due
to limited enforcement by USDA-FSIS and state agencies. Considering that small-scale
farms are spread across Pennsylvania, future outreach should focus on regions beyond
those with high poultry concentrations and reevaluate the risks to the commercial industry.
Dr. J. Boney
Penn State Extension
A Simple Sample Locator for Poultry
$ 15,882
A list was compiled detailing the most common diseases affecting poultry in Pennsylvania, along with the recommended anatomical sampling locations for each disease. Although sending the entire bird is often preferred, alternative sampling methods were provided for situations where sending the whole bird is impractical. This information, including disease details, sampling locations, and shipping considerations, was organized and given to a graphic designer from Penn State, who created a poster featuring these details and contact information for three PADLS laboratories.
Dr. G. Lorenzoni
Penn State University
Avian Medicine and Pathology Residency Program at Penn State University
$ 138,794
The Avian Medicine and Pathology Resident provided important contributions to the
diagnostic service and outreach missions of the Penn State Animal Diagnostic laboratory
(ADL). His key functions included providing support to the Pennsylvania poultry industry
through diagnostic service, field investigations, and industry education. He has also
presented on ongoing diagnostic and research efforts at regional and national poultry
disease conferences.
Dr. M. Lighty
Penn State Animal Diagnostic Lab
Poultry Welfare & Production Medicine Fellowship at Clinical Studies – New Bolton Center
$174,979
Offer a post graduate training program for a veterinarian with an interest in poultry that
develops poultry disease diagnostic skills, animal welfare credentials, and PA poultry
industry connections in order to facilitate the successful candidate to practice veterinary
medicine in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania after successful program completion.
Dr. M. Pierdon
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
Secure Pork Supply Training
$14,550
Biosecurity training to swine producers throughout Commonwealth - topics include
paperwork, disease, etc. Resource video available Preparing for Disease Response on
Your Farm (psu.edu)
Dr. E. Hines
Penn State Extension
Evaluation of Vaccination for Egg Drop Syndrome Infection using Real Time PCR testing and a Commercial ELISA in Layers on EDS Affected Farms in PA
$18,337
The goal was to evaluate antibody response to EDS vaccination in layer flocks using
Biochek EDS ELISA and to evaluate shedding in EDS vaccinated flocks using PCR
testing. The PCR samples were negative prior to vaccination and remained negative post
vaccination. These results show that the vaccinated layers do not shed the virus. EDS
vaccination has been an essential control measure on EDA endemic farms.
S. Davison & E. Anis
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
Establishing PCR Assays for Detection of Infectious Bronchitis Virus Serotypes
$84,152
Infectious Bronchitis Virus continues to be an important disease-causing production loss
to poultry. This study identified PA's most commonly occurring IBE variants and a two-step
multiplex PCR assay was designed for their detection.
S. Kuchipudi
Animal Diagnostic Lab, PSU
Farm Animal Emergency Response- Certificate Program for Animal Shelters
$12,500
Provide a professional and educated response by animal protection organizations who
play a critical role in assisting responding authorities with sheltering farm animals in
emergencies.
C. Shelly
Animal Crime Institute, LLC
Justification for Small Ruminant Extension Specialist position at Penn State
University
$5,000
Assess the current scope of the sheep and goat industry, economic impact, and existing PSU Extension personnel with expertise to support the industry. Provide justification to
PSU administration for hiring a Small Ruminant Extension Specialist.
Dr. R. Mikesell
Penn State University
2023 Sheep and Goat Management Calendar
$5,500
Create 2023 Small Ruminant calendars to include marketing advice and best management practices.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
Disease Awareness- Public Information Distribution
$50,000.00
Create and purchase ad space in public engaging news outlets to inform the public of
disease threats, how to respond, and where to access more information.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
AI Readiness Response Supplies
$100,000
Equip Pennsylvania with Avian Influenza response supplies.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
Spanish Course for Poultry and Swine
$130,000
Curriculum creation for beginner and intermediate Spanish language courses.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
Educators Ag Institute- Ag Crate Project for Poultry, Swine, and Sheep
$8,500
Provide educator resources on swine, poultry, and sheep.
C. Espenshade
Friends of Ag Foundation- Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
Pennsylvania Sheep and Goat Quality Assurance Program
$84,533
Evaluate existing quality assurance programs to develop a set of goals for a small
ruminant quality assurance program in the state of Pennsylvania.
Dr. W. Fritz
Delaware Valley University
Influence of Vitamin A and D on Milk Quality and Piglet Health
$28,332
Conduct an applied research project that investigates the effect of Vitamin A and D
administration to the sow during late gestation on milk quality and immune function of the
piglet.
Dr. E. Hines
Penn State University
Swine Microbiome and Resistome After Insemination with Semen Containing
Antibiotics
$56,262
Provide empirical data that supports best AI practices for porcine producers in
Pennsylvania and provide a better understanding to agriculture's role in antibiotic
stewardship.
Dr. L. Brito
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
Assessment of Animal Welfare and Behavioral Impacts on Commercial Laying
Hens Infested with Bed Bugs
$20,795
Determine the effect of bed bugs on layer chicken welfare through behavioral and
physiological measures. Use free image analysis software, "ImageJ" for bed bug
quantification.
Dr. M. Pierdon
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
One Health Task Force
$2,000
Connect human, animal, and environmental health stakeholders.
Dr. J. Holt
Determining the Size and Scope of USDA Exempted Poultry Processing in PA
$109,213
Assess the level of disease threat and biosecurity issues surrounding small-scale
producers and subsequent extension programming to directly address concerns.
Dr. J. Boney
Penn State University
Deciphering the Role of Gut Microbiome in Reducing Haemonchus Contorus
Infestation in PA's Small Ruminant Herds
$89,500
Understand the role of Haemonchus contortus microbiome interactions in small ruminants
and identify therapeutic interventions to promote health, reduce parasitic burden, and
improve production and welfare.
Dr. D. Pitta
Penn State University
Investigation into the Cause of Pheasant Hepatopathy Syndrome
$49,486
Identification of affected and control of flocks, Metagenomics, and Electron Microscopy.
Dr. M. Lighty
Penn State University
A Simple Sample Locator for Poultry
$15,882
Create a simple chart-type tool to help professionals of the poultry industry to determine
which are the most suitable samples to submit to the diagnostic laboratory depending on
the suspected condition.
Dr. G. Lorenzoni
Penn State University
Evaluation of Vaccination for Egg Drop Syndrome Infection Using Real-time PCR
Testing and a Commercial ELISA in Layers on EDS-affected Farms in PA
$18,337
Evaluate antibody response to EDS vaccination in layer flocks and evaluate viral shedding
in EDS vaccinated layers using real-time PCR testing.
Dr. S. Davison & Dr. Anis
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
Establish a Secure Food Supply Program in PA
$84,760
Complete 150 food supply plans and provide cost-share opportunities for plan
development and installation of best management practices.
C. Hershey
PennAg Industries Association
SWOT of Animal Agriculture in Commonwealth of PA
$49,994
Dr. C. Gambino
Delaware Valley University
Surveillance and Genetic Characterization of Infectious Bronchitis Viruses from
Commercial Chicken Flocks in PA
$49,954
Map the geographic distribution of Infectious Bronchitis Virus strains across Pennsylvania
and identify high-risk regions for IBV.
Dr. M. Lighty
Penn State University
Avian Medicine and Pathology Residence Program at Penn State University
$138,794
Equip an avian medicine and pathology resident to function independently in a diagnostic,
technical support, research, or veterinary setting.
Dr. M. Lighty
Penn State University
Surveillance of Egg Drop Syndrome (EDS) Infection Using Commercial ELISA
$8,063
Conduct initial surveillance of PA layer flocks for antibodies to EDS using the Biocheck
EDS ELISA.
Dr. E. Anis & Dr. S. Davison
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton
Development of a Rapid Molecular Typing Technique to Track Gallibacterium
anatis in Layer Poultry Farms
$30,000
Develop simple molecular typing technique to track G. anatis in poultry farms and identify
genes to understand emergence of antimicrobial resistance.
H. Lu
Penn State University
Expanding the Penn State Butcher School
$42,446
Conduct formal butcher training, including strong segments of theory and hands-on
experience.
Dr. J. Campbell
Penn State University
Field Scale Research Controlling Internal Parasites of Goats with Sericera
Lespedeza in PA
$10,000
Determine if AU Grazer Sericera Lespedeza can be an effective non-chemical, antiparasitic,
that combined with best management practices, can contribute to the reduction
and control of internal parasites.
G. Cauffman
Pure American Naturals
Poultry Bed Bug Surveillance, Identification, and Outreach
$81,636
Survey to better-understand the extent of bed bugs, verify identification, and outreach,
education, and training on biology, life cycle, and control measures for bed bugs in poultry
facilities.
Dr. P. Patterson
Penn State University
Screening for Egg Drop Syndrome Infection Using PCR & Commercial ELISA
$12,093
Validate real-time PCR for detection of EDS virus and commercially-available ELISA for
detection of antibodies to EDS.
Dr. E. Anis
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton Center
PA Food Animal Processing Strategic Needs Assessment
$65,723
Identifying and connecting gaps within PA's Food Animal Processing industry.
Dr. C. Gambino
Delaware Valley University
User Friendly Veterinary Telemedicine Service
$99,979
Collecting and analyzing data on the capabilities and limitations of telemedicine veterinary
services specific to livestock/poultry practice in rural areas of Pennsylvania.
Dr. G. Patterson
VetNow
Improving Biosecurity within the Commonwealth of PA
$48,000
Piloting a biosecurity tool, "Barn360."
Dr. B. Mason
Country View Family Farms
Training for Disease Response in the PA Swine Industry
$95,700
Building the human knowledge base and local infrastructure needed to deal with a high
consequence disease outbreak in the swine population.
Dr. E. Hines and C. Williams
Penn State University
Establishing PCR Assays for Detection of Infectious Bronchitis Virus Serotypes
$84,152
Developing molecular diagnostic tests for the typing of avian infectious bronchitis virus
isolates.
Dr. S. Kuchipudi
Penn State University
Poultry Welfare and Production Medicine Fellowship at Clinical Studies
$174,979
Post Grad training for vet with interest in poultry to develop skills needed for diagnostics,
animal welfare and industry connections.
Dr. M. Pierdon
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton Center
Youth Biosecurity and Protection of Livestock Industry
$21,200
Target jackpot show exhibitors with need for biosecurity to protect all of Pennsylvania
livestock.
J. Darr
PA Pork Strategic Investment Program
Secure Pork Supply Training
$14,550
Biosecurity training to swine producers throughout Commonwealth - topics include
paperwork, disease, etc.
Dr. E. Hines
Penn State Extension
Depopulation Readiness
$22,295
Equip animal ag in Lancaster, Mifflin and Juniata Counties to ensure they have the
necessary equipment in the event of an animal health challenge.
Dr. G. Martin
Penn State Extension, Lancaster County
Capturing Newly Emerging Markets: How Best to Manage Post-Weaned Sows
$99,968
Evaluating the details of Prop 12 in California and how that would impact Pennsylvania
pork production.
Dr. T. Parsons
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine- New Bolton Center
Strategic Analysis of Poultry and Livestock Health Issues in PA
$50,000
Comprehensive look across the Commonwealth as to what is needed for poultry, swine,
lambs, sheep and goats.
Dr. D. Wolfgang
Previous State Veterinarian/Penn State University