The master’s thesis titled: “Conventional and Molecular Diagnosis of Microfilariae of Filarial Worms in Cattle and Buffalo” by the student Zainab Ghalib Ali, under the supervision of Prof. Sara Salem Abdulrazzaq, was discussed on Tuesday, 21 July 2026 at the Department of Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine.

The examination committee consisted of the following members:

1. Prof. Manal Hammadi Hassan (College of Veterinary Medicine – University of Mosul) – Chair
2. Prof. Qais Talib Shakir (College of Veterinary Medicine – University of Mosul) – Member
3. Asst. Prof. Marwa Hashim Dawood (College of Science – University of Mosul) – Member
4. Prof. Sara Salem Abdulrazzaq (College of Veterinary Medicine – University of Mosul) – Member and Supervisor

The study investigated microfilaria infections in blood samples and skin scrapings collected from cattle and buffalo using both conventional and molecular diagnostic methods. Various staining techniques were applied to detect the parasite, in addition to employing molecular approaches for confirmation. The research successfully recorded four genetic isolates of microfilaria belonging to different filarial worm species in the international GenBank database. This study is considered the first of its kind in Iraq to utilize molecular techniques for diagnosing microfilariae in cattle and buffalo.

After the student confidently defended her thesis and addressed the committee’s questions, 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. This defense aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).

University of Mosul

College of Veterinary Medicine

Department of Microbiology