The British Society of Animal Science is proud to announce Esme Logan as the winner of its Undergraduate Thesis of the Year 2025 Award, recognising outstanding research and contribution to the field of animal science. This year’s award goes to a student whose passion for livestock health and parasitology has led to pioneering work on one of the most pressing challenges facing global agriculture: liver fluke control and anthelmintic resistance. In this interview, Esme reflects on her background, inspiration, research journey, and the impact of her thesis—offering valuable insights into the importance of undergraduate research and the future of animal science.

 

Background

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue a degree in animal science?

I was born in Shropshire but moved to Lancashire at a young age, where I went to school and Sixth form. After completing my A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, and Geography, I moved to Aberystwyth to pursue my university studies. My love for the countryside and all things animals has been with me from a young age. I’ve always had a deep passion for animals, particularly horses and livestock, which sparked my interest in animal science. Coupled with my fascination for biology and science, it felt like a natural path to pursue a degree in Veterinary Bioscience.

What led you to choose your thesis topic, and why do you think it’s important?

I found myself enjoying and being particularly interested in parasitology-based lectures and modules, alongside a strong interest for livestock health, so I knew I wanted to complete a research project that brought these two areas together. I believe the topic of my research project is very important because anthelmintic resistance poses a growing threat to the effective control of liver fluke, a parasite of global significance. The liver fluke is a widespread economically damaging issue for farmers worldwide, making research in this field impactful.

 

About the Thesis

Could you give us a brief overview of your thesis and its main findings?

In summary my research focused on a current challenge facing global livestock: the control of the liver fluke parasite. My work successfully identified and characterised a novel protein target, known as the vacuolar protein sorting 13 (VPS13),  which could be used in future control methods to combat the liver fluke.

 

What challenges did you face while conducting your research, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I found was the limited amount of existing research on VPS13 in helminths. While some studies existed in humans and other model organisms, very little to none had been published about its role in parasites such as liver fluke. This meant I often had to draw comparisons from other species that were as like the liver fluke as I could find. Although it was difficult, it also made the project more exciting, as I was researching in an area with real potential for novel findings. By piecing together what was available and applying it to my own findings, I was able to build a foundation for future research in this area.

 

How does your thesis contribute to the field of animal science or have practical applications in the industry?

Liver fluke is a globally distributed pathogenic parasite, that causes economic losses globally to the livestock industry, through lower productivity, health issues and control/treatment methods. Liver flukes are showing an increased activity of resistance to the main anthelmintic of choice used to combat the parasite, therefore threatening the main control of liver fluke.

 

Experience and Learning

What was the most interesting or surprising thing you discovered during your research?

Before beginning my research on liver fluke and anthelmintic resistance, I didn’t fully appreciate the magnitude and importance of the issue. However, when I started to investigate the prevalence and significance of liver fluke and anthelmintic resistance, I was surprised by both the scale of the issue and how quickly resistance to some anthelmintics can develop. This was particularly striking given how heavily the livestock industry relies on these drugs, not only as a treatment but also as a preventative measure.

How did your academic experience and your professors/advisors support your thesis journey?

My first two years of my degree gave me a solid foundation, particularly in developing research skills and scientific writing, which helped me feel prepared to take on a thesis. My supervisor for my project, Dr. Russ Morphew, provided me with expert guidance on the areas of the research that were completely new to me, such as bioinformatics and more complex aspects of the research. His guidance and encouragement were invaluable and I’m extremely grateful for his support throughout the project.What skills did you develop or improve while working on your thesis?

One of the biggest skills I developed was learning bioinformatic methodology, which was completely new to me when I began. I also improved my scientific writing skills as I had never completed a research project of this scale before. I also was able to refine my communication skills through presenting my project, which I know will be important for my future career.

 

The Award

How does it feel to win the 'Undergraduate Thesis of The Year Award 2024'? What does this recognition mean to you?

I feel truly honoured to have received this award. It’s very rewarding to have my work recognised in this way, and it makes me feel grateful for the guidance and support I’ve had along the way. It’s also incredibly exciting and motivating to see that my work has been valued by others. I feel inspired to pursue further research in the future.

How do you think this award will impact your future career or academic pursuits?

I feel reassured in my work having gained this recognition and now inspired to pursue further research in this area when I next get the opportunity too. It has felt very inspiring to me and I now feel more motivated to continue contributing to animal science and parasitology.

Why do you believe awards like this are important for encouraging undergraduate research?

I think awards like this shine a spotlight on the value of an undergraduate research project and the contributions that students can make to their fields. They provide recognition and encouragement at a formative stage in a student’s career, helping to build their confidence and give inspiration for their future careers.

 

Looking Ahead

What are your plans for the future, and do you intend to continue working in animal science research?

I have just started studying Veterinary Science at the University of Liverpool and I am really excited about the opportunities ahead. I hope to continue research both during my studies and in my future career. I’d love to combine my clinical knowledge with research to contribute to improving animal health and tackling challenges like parasitic disease in the future.

Do you have any advice for students who are considering submitting their thesis for this award in the future?

My advice would be to go for it! Don’t underestimate yourself or the value of your work. Have confidence in what you’ve achieved.

How do you see the field of animal science evolving over the next few years, and what role would you like to play in it?

Animal science is becoming increasingly important as we face global challenges like food security, climate change, and the need for sustainable farming. I think research into animal health, disease control, and welfare will play a central role in addressing these issues. I hope to contribute by combining veterinary practice with research, particularly in parasitology and livestock health, to help develop solutions that benefit and contribute to one health.

 

Personal Insights

What’s the one piece of advice you wish you had known before starting your thesis project?

Start writing up as early as you can! It’s easy to put it off, but having a draft in progress really takes the pressure off later. I also wish I’d known not to worry if the results don’t turn out exactly as expected, the unexpected findings are a normal and valuable part of the research project and they can often lead to the most interesting insights.

Is there a particular moment or experience that stands out to you from your research journey?

Yes! I remember when I had a “penny drop”  moment when everything fell into place and I really felt like I knew where I was going with my project. It happened towards the end of carrying out my methods and as I was bringing together my results. The different sections of my research began to connect, and I could see the bigger picture taking place.

Who has been your biggest inspiration or support during this process?

My biggest support has been my supervisor, who guided me with his expertise, and my two best friends, who were completing similar research projects. We encouraged and supported one another. Having that combination of professional guidance and peer support made the process much more manageable and rewarding.