MSc Agriculture Student (2nd Year) / Research Assistant
Dalhousie University, Canada
Hamza Jawad, DVM, MSc Agriculture Student (2nd Year) / Research Assistant at Dalhousie University,NS
Hamza Jawad is a second-year MSc Agriculture student specializing in Animal Genomics and Metabolomics at Dalhousie University, where he also serves as a research assistant. He completed his Doctor-of-Veterinary-Medicine in Pakistan before pursuing advanced studies in Canada. His MSc thesis focuses on evaluating the health and production of sheep, specifically targeting gastrointestinal parasites. This involves assessments such as fecal egg count, blood cell count, and physiological parameters like the Five Point Check. His work also examines growth performance, feed intake, and feeding behaviour.
Hamza's research extends to metabolomics, identifying blood biomarkers to detect subclinical Haemonchus contortus infections early. In genomics, he uses Whole Genome Sequence data to compare Copy Number Variations between parasite-resistant and susceptible sheep. His research includes developing a handheld diagnostic tool for early infection detection in sheep.
At Dalhousie, Hamza was a teaching assistant for the Companion Animal Biology course (ANSC 3006) from January to April 2024, instructing labs on genetics, reproductive anatomy, and the care of sled dogs. He used the TENSET Breeder Assistant for Cats software for genetic analyses.
Hamza has extensive experience through internships and positions. He worked at Olds College on data collection for his MSc project and sheep feed efficiency studies. His prior roles include production manager positions at FEED KING (PVT.) LTD. and Taizgaam Feed Mills in Pakistan.
His achievements include winning the People's Choice Award at the Sustainability of Canadian Agriculture 2024 Graduate Video Competition and second place in the Canadian Sheep Breeders’ Association 2024 Photo Contest. He is also a recipient of the Atlantic Dairy and Forage Institute Graduate Award. Hamza's background in animal health, feed management, and omics research underscores his dedication to advancing sustainable livestock production and contributing to the scientific community.