Hi I'm
Dr Salvatore Galgano

As a researcher in monogastric microbiology, my focus is on gut health, microbe-host interactions, and animal production systems. My main interest is understanding how microbes in the gut influence the health, performance, and disease resistance of farm animals, especially pigs and poultry.

A core part of my work is carried out on our research farms such as our Poultry Unit Allermuir Avian Innovation and Skills Centre, where I run trials with animals. These studies allow us to test different feeds, additives, or management strategies to evaluate how they affect gut health and overall performance.

A major focus of my research is on reducing the use of antibiotics in livestock farming. I am interested in finding practical alternatives—such as feed-based interventions, microbiota modulation, and improved management practices—that help maintain animal health while reducing reliance on antimicrobial treatments. This work is closely linked to antimicrobial resistance, which is a growing challenge for both animal and human health.

In addition, my research interests include reducing zoonotic and animal-specific diseases, reducing the environmental footprint of livestock production systems, and developing mathematical models and bioinformatic tools to better understand the interactions between bacteria and animals.

My working style is highly applied and collaborative. I value research that addresses real-world farming challenges, and I regularly work with industry partners to ensure that our studies are relevant and useful in practice. I also enjoy interdisciplinary work, combining microbiology, nutrition, and animal health to develop practical solutions for more sustainable and resilient livestock production systems.