The Swine It Podcast: Dr. Declan Schroeder - Stronger Biosecurity with Viability PCR

Dr. Declan Schroeder, Professor of Virology at the University of Minnesota, explains how viability PCR improves virus detection in swine systems. He discusses how this molecular approach distinguishes intact virus particles from residual genetic material, helping evaluate biosecurity risks, feed contamination, and mitigation strategies. Dr. Schroeder also highlights how the method supports better decision-making in disease prevention.

Meet the guest

Dr. Declan Schroeder is a Professor of Virology in the Department of Veterinary Population Medicine at the University of Minnesota. His research focuses on molecular virology, genomics, and virus detection across animal and environmental systems, including swine health challenges such as PRRSV, PEDV, and influenza. His work explores advanced diagnostic tools that improve virus detection and biosecurity decision-making in production systems.

What you will learn