Master’s Thesis Defense

A Master’s thesis defense was held at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Microbiology, for the thesis entitled:

“Molecular Detection of Some Virulence Genes of Staphylococcus aureus from Bumble Foot of Chickens”

The thesis was presented by Izz al-Din Burhan Ghaib under the supervision of Asst. Prof. Somaya Yassin Abdullah, on Monday, July 27, 2026.

The examination committee consisted of:

1. Dr. Muzahim Yassin Khalil (College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul) – Chair
2. Dr. Reem Zuhair Shakir (College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul) – Member
3. Prof. Dr. Saba Abdul Rahim Hussein (College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul) – Member
4. Dr. Somaya Yassin Abdullah (College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul) – Member and Supervisor

The study concluded that Staphylococcus aureus bacteria play an important role in the development of bumble foot abscesses in chickens, as evidenced by their high isolation rate and possession of key virulence factors, including thermostable nuclease, staphylococcal protein A, coagulase, and hemolysins. The presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in chicken samples poses a public health threat due to the possibility of transmission to humans and the environment.

After the student’s scientific and confident defense and the committee’s discussion, the thesis was approved.

Congratulations to the researcher, the supervisor, the college, and the Department of Microbiology on this scientific achievement. Best wishes to the examination committee for their valuable efforts. This defense contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).