A research scientist from the University of Melbourne's Faculty of Veterinary Science has been awarded a prestigious award for young scientists.

Dr Aaron Jex received the Peter Nansen Young Scientist Award from the World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology (WAAVP). The Peter Nansen award recognises innovative and outstanding work by promising young professionals in the field of veterinary parasitology.

Dr Jex is a member of the Faculty's Parasite Genetics and Genomics team which is headed by Professor Robin Gasser. He has been postdoctoral scientist in the Werribee laboratory since 2006, where his research has focused on molecular (DNA) research of waterborne parasites and roundworms of humans and livestock.

The ability to identify important parasites of humans and livestock at this level provides the foundation for studies into transmission of parasitic diseases, which can in turn lead to better control and prevention strategies.

The award is presented in memory of late Professor Peter Nansen, for his outstanding contributions to veterinary parasitology and his encouragement of young, promising scientists in this field.

"I consider it a tremendous honour to be receiving an award that bares the name of such a well-respected scientist," said Dr Jex.

Dr Jex was nominated for the award in recognition of his work on the parasite Cryptosporidium, which causes diarrhoea in animals and livestock. He has been working with the Melbourne Water Corporation in an ongoing project aimed at aiding in the prevention of the transmission of disease to humans and improving diagnosis of disease in other animals.

The award also recognised Dr Jex's work in molecular research on a range of important parasitic worms of major agricultural and veterinary importance, including a major sheep parasite, Haemonchus contortus, the cattle hookworm, Bunostomum phlebotomum and important parasites of dogs, including the canine hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum and the roundworm, Toxocara canis.  This research aims to improve fundamental knowledge of these parasites and provides new avenues for the development of better diagnostic tools, which is an essential component to controlling parasitic infections.

Dr Jex is now planning on expanding his research internationally.

"I'll be collaborating with scientists in South East Asia, the United Kingdom and the United States to develop cutting edge molecular technologies that will continue to advance research on infectious parasites of humans and other animals", said Dr Jex.

The award gives Dr Jex the opportunity to return to his home country of Canada, where he will be presented with the prize at the WAAVP Conference in Calgary in August. He is originally from Vancouver Island, and moved to Australia to undertake a PhD after finishing his Bachelor of Science degree.