From Animal Health to One Health Research: Shah’s Journey in Poultry Science

By Ruth Zadoks

Mian Khaqan Shah is a dedicated researcher and PhD candidate at the University of Sydney’s Poultry Research Foundation, where he investigates the complex relationship between poultry nutrition and antimicrobial resistance (AMR), an issue with growing implications for both animal and human health. He graduated with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from N.W.F.P Agricultural University, Pakistan in 2011, and later completed a Master of Science in Veterinary Public Health from Universiti Putra Malaysia in 2017. With a background in veterinary medicine and public health, Shah brings a unique mix of hands-on industry experience and research insight into his work.

Shah’s academic journey has been rooted in addressing critical issues in animal health and food safety. During his master’s research, he examined the occurrence of antibiotic-resistant pathogenic E. coli, with a focus on the foodborne pathogen E. coli O157:H7. This work strengthened his interest in zoonotic diseases and public health threats arising from animal production systems. He later worked in the poultry industry as a farm manager in Pakistan, where he saw the real-world challenges of poultry production, balancing animal health, productivity, and responsible antibiotic use. These experiences motivated him to return to research with a focus on finding sustainable solutions to AMR in poultry systems.

Driven by his passion to contribute to safer and more sustainable poultry systems, Shah is now pursuing a PhD focused on the association between poultry diets and the shedding of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. His project is structured on evaluating how different poultry diets influence the prevalence of AMR and multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria with their genetic relatedness and resistance determinants in antibiotic-free production systems. What drives Shah is a strong desire to make research practical and impactful. His work is closely aligned with the “One Health” approach, which recognizes that the health of people, animals, and the environment are all connected. After completing his PhD, Shah plans to work in the poultry industry, helping develop evidence-based strategies to reduce AMR while supporting animal welfare, food safety, and environmental sustainability. He hopes his contributions will support global goals like Zero Hunger, Good Health and Wellbeing, and Climate Action.