“The noticeable increased resistance to antibiotics in human population is currently under public radar,” Barkovskii said. “The usage of antibiotics by animal feeding operations and the subsequent migration of antibiotic resistance genes from these operations to the environment and food chains as well as the increase of antibiotic resistance in farm animals are viewed as potential reasons for increased concern.”

These studies are conducted in Barkovskii’s laboratory and involve the assistance of five students, two of whom will build their masters theses on their research.

The proposed research will clarify the role of swine farms in the distribution of antibiotic resistance genes to the environment, Barkovskii said.

“Our findings will allow the industry to address public health concerns with respect to antibiotic resistance and improve, if necessary, current protocols for antibiotic administration and waste handling,” he said.

Barkovskii earned Master of Science Degrees in biology and chemistry from Saratov State University in Russia and his Doctorate Degree in microbiology from the Supreme Certification Committee, USSR Council of Ministers. He came to Georgia College in 2001 as assistant professor in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences. He previously worked as a research scientist in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at University of Michigan, appointed as a visiting associate professor at University of Lyon, France, and was associate director of the Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Plants and Microorganisms at Russia Academy of Sciences.

Barkovskii has received numerous recognitions and awards throughout his career, including an Excellence in Research/Publication Award at Georgia College.