Dr. Theofilos Papadopoulos, Laboratory Director in the Directorate of Veterinary Centre of Thessaloniki, visited the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine – Skopje Ss “Cyril and Methodius” University in Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia, hosted by Prof. Iskra Cvetkovikj, and Prof Mirko Prodanov.

The main objective of this STSM was to delve into the use of MALDI-TOF MS for the typing and subtyping of Salmonella isolates. During the STMS in Skopje, Dr. Papadopulos explored the foundational principles of MALDI-TOF MS and its practical implementations in the laboratory setting. He was trained in the utilization of MALDI-TOF MS for the identification and serotyping of Salmonella isolates collected from human, food, environmental, and animal sources. Furthermore, he carried out a small-scale project to explore the potential of MALDI-TOF MS as a substitute for the traditional method of serotyping Salmonella.

This STSM is a pivotal milestone in the integration of MALDI-TOF MS into routine veterinary practices in Greece. Not only has this STSM enhanced Dr. Papadopoulos’s skills and proficiency in this cutting-edge technology, but it has also opened doors for forging strong partnerships between both laboratories, leading to fruitful research opportunities. Together, they embark on a promising alliance that holds the key to future achievements on improving diagnostics methods in veterinary labs across Europe.