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Catherina Cunnane
Catherina Cunnanehttps://www.thatsfarming.com/
Catherina Cunnane hails from a sixth-generation drystock and specialised pedigree suckler enterprise in Co. Mayo. She currently holds the positions of editor and general manager at That's Farming, having joined the firm during its start-up phase in 2015.
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Consider a career in animal diagnostic testing

“There is a growing need for veterinary bioscientists to stay up-to-date on the latest tests to diagnose liver and rumen fluke.”

That is according to Marta Mackowska, lab manager with Agri Diagnostics, which employs ten people and offers a range of animal diagnostic services from its state-of-the-art laboratories in Dunrine, Killarney.

The Kerry-based veterinary lab is encouraging students to consider carving a career in animal diagnostic testing.

It delivered a short training course to students from Munster Technological University to provide an insight into the latest methods and testing techniques.

Veterinary bioscientists

A cohort of eleven students spent a morning at the company’s parasitology lab, where they saw how to detect liver and rumen fluke in cattle.

Mackowska commented:

“We delivered a short course training to the MTU students. The practical sessions took place in our parasitology lab. Students were trained in the methods of the detection of liver and rumen fluke.”

“Anti-parasitic resistance means that it is no longer sustainable to over-use drug treatments which is why diagnostic testing is so important.”

“The government is set to introduce a new scheme next year, so testing will continue. It is lovely to meet the next generation of veterinary bioscientists.”

“I think it is a great industry to be part of. Our work is meaningful and what we do makes a difference to animal health,” the lab manager concluded.

Agri Diagnostics

The company continues to grow and is interested to hear from people with a background in:

  • Veterinary bioscience;
  • Molecular biology;
  • Biochemistry;
  • Microbiology;
  • A related discipline.

According to Mackowska, the lab has a team of experienced scientists and is accredited to ISO 17025 standards for a range of test methods.

Staff undergo training and development to ensure it uses the most up-to-date methods.

Meanwhile, technical teams and quality management staff work “continuously” to develop ongoing test methods and validation processes.

Read our Career Focus segment.

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