Advancing Poultry Health Through Immunology, Microbiome Science, and Translational Innovation

At the Yitbarek Lab (University of Delaware), we study how the immune system, gut microbiota, and nutrition intersect to shape disease resistance, vaccine efficacy, and overall health in poultry.

Our research focuses on:

• Avian immunology: Understanding innate, cell-mediated and antibody mediate immune responses in poultry.
• Microbiome–host interactions: Exploring how gut microbes influence vaccine outcomes, inflammatory pathways, and resistance to diseases like Clostridium perfringens and avian influenza.
• Next-generation vaccine development: Designing and testing innovative delivery systems including in ovo, foam spray, and mucosal nanoparticle-based vaccines.
• Nutritional immunology: Investigating how prebiotics, probiotics, and natural compounds (e.g., phytogenics, selenium, vitamin D) modulate immune and microbial responses.

We work across basic immunology, microbial ecology, and applied poultry science, bridging academic research and industry collaboration.

📣 Recent Highlights

🧪 New Paper:

📈 Grant Awarded:

🔬 Trial Launched:

📢 Open Positions: