Animal models, expertise, diagnostics and training
Our solutions for studying poultry health
Studies and trials
Our multidisciplinary teams conduct poultry health research and studies in full compliance with international veterinary standards. We support all phases of development, managing projects from obtaining regulatory approvals to delivering final reports.
We offer the following study types:
Clinical field studies
Royal GD has a strong network of farmers and veterinarians in the Netherlands and a deep understanding of farm disease status through our annual Animal Health Surveillance System. This allows us to conduct clinical field studies in real-world conditions. Additionally, as part of the GD Group, we collaborate with veterinary laboratories across multiple countries, enabling multi-country studies.
Studies on-site
At our BSL-2 facility, we operate more than 70 isolators for conducting controlled poultry studies under strict biosecurity conditions. Our state-of-the-art isolator hall, essential for poultry health research, is equipped with computerized monitoring systems, ensuring precision in study conditions. For larger studies, we also have clean floor pens and an in-house flock of SPF layers and broilers. Combined with our extensive diagnostic testing capabilities, we provide comprehensive research solutions.
Discover our facilities
Challenge studies
Our team specializes in challenge studies designed to evaluate vaccine efficacy and disease resistance under controlled conditions. We focus on key poultry diseases, including:
- Avian influenza (H5, H9)
- Newcastle Disease
- Infectious Bronchitis (M41, QX, Q1, VAR2, 4/91) animal disease file Infectious Bronchitis
- Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro) animal disease file Infectious Bursal Disease
- Coccidiosis animal disease file Coccidiosis
- E. coli (EPS) animal disease file Colibacillosis
- Mycoplasma synoviae and M. gallisepticum animal disease file Mycoplasma
- Fowl pox
As leaders in poultry disease research, we continuously develop new challenge models, using both field isolates from Dutch farms and client-provided strains. Our current new models under development include:
- Infectious laryngotracheitis (TRT)
- Reovirus
- Egg Drop Syndrome
- Marek’s disease
Contact us to discuss customized challenge models.
Our experts
Robert Jan Molenaar, DVM, FCRPath
"As a veterinarian with a PhD in Veterinary Immunology, I specialize in the study of immune responses to infectious diseases in poultry. My focus includes avian immune responses, immunization strategies, and disease prevention in poultry. I work closely with both the research community and industry to advance our understanding of poultry health." Read more
Prof. Sjaak de Wit, DVM, PhD, DipECPVS
"As a fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists in London, I specialize in avian pathology. My expertise includes research on Salmonella, Influenza, and Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), as well as overseeing mink disease monitoring in the Netherlands." Read more
Anneke Feberwee, DVM, PhD, EBVS®
"As an immunologist and senior researcher, I oversee the quality and accreditation of serological tests for poultry pathogens. My expertise includes test development, applied research, and on-site consultancy for farms, hatcheries, and integrators. I hold a PhD in diagnosis and transmission of IBV." Read more
Christiaan ter Veen, DVM, MAHM
"I am a recognized Specialist in Poultry Veterinary Science appointed by the European College of Poultry Veterinary Science. I have been a part of Royal GD since 1996. My work focuses on diagnostic field research, disease control, and avian mycoplasmas." Read more
In vitro and in vivo models for Coccidiosis
Coccidiosis is a widespread parasitic disease caused by Eimeria species, affecting poultry of all ages but particularly young chicks. It spreads through contaminated feed, water, or contact with infected birds, leading to:
- Diarrhea & weight loss
- Decreased appetite & egg production
- Higher mortality rates
Effective Coccidiosis prevention and control relies on:
- Hygiene & biosecurity
- Balanced nutrition & clean water
- Anticoccidial drugs & vaccines
At Royal GD, we have a long-standing track record in studying Coccidiosis and its causative parasites. Our expertise includes:
- Diagnostic tools for detecting infection
- In vitro and in vivo models to assess vaccine and treatment efficacy
- Training & consultancy on disease management strategies
