معرفی
Hefin Williams is a researcher in the Department of Life Sciences at Aberystwyth University, with a focus on parasitology, environmental DNA (eDNA), and sustainable livestock systems. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals through innovations in veterinary science and agricultural sustainability. He has served as Principal Investigator on externally funded projects related to fluke control and digital agriculture and is actively engaged in interdisciplinary research with collaborators across the UK and internationally.
Research Interests: Dr. Williams specializes in the detection and management of parasitic infections in ruminants, particularly Fasciola hepatica and Calicophoron daubneyi, using molecular tools such as eDNA and PCR-based assays. His research extends into digital agriculture, where he explores AI and sensor technologies for animal health monitoring. He also investigates the ecological and genomic aspects of plant relatives like Brachypodium distachyon.
The recent publications highlight a strong trend in environmental DNA applications for parasite surveillance, statistical modeling of disease spread, and precision livestock farming. His work bridges molecular biology, veterinary epidemiology, and sustainable agricultural policy.
Scientific Awards:
- Queen’s Anniversary Prize 2023
Grants and Advising: Dr. Williams has led multiple externally funded research projects, including those from Riverlane (UK) and Connect LNG (Norway). He has supervised PhD students and early-career researchers, as evidenced by co-authored works and collaborative outputs. His role in the BBSRC-funded Precision solutions for controlling fasciolosis in sheep project underscores his leadership in grant acquisition and team coordination.
Labs and Teams: He is part of a multidisciplinary team at Aberystwyth University involving parasitologists, molecular biologists, and agricultural scientists. His collaborations with researchers like R. A. Jones and P. M. Brophy reflect strong institutional and cross-institutional networks focused on livestock health and environmental sustainability.
