Behavioral physiology as an interdisciplinary research area in animal science integrates aspects of behavioral biology, endocrinology, reproductive biology, and immunology. Our department focuses on the effects of endogenous and exogenous factors on the neuro-endocrine-immune network, the microbiota, and the behavior of farm animals. The research activities are basic science-oriented and equally serve to better understand the interactions of animals with their environment and the resulting consequences for the health, animal welfare and performance of animals. On the other hand, our research also has clear application-oriented references with implications for animal welfare and health as well as sustainable production.
CURRENT FOCUS
- Stress physiology and psychoneuroimmunology
- Cross-talk between immune cells and bacteria under stress conditions
- Biological rhythms and immune function
- Animal welfare
- Sustainable pork production with male pigs
Our work is currently focused on pigs and poultry, but not limited to these species. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of our research approach, a wide range of state of the art methods from immunology, endocrinology and behavioral biology are applied and constantly further developed and adapted to the research needs of the various livestock species.
