Laboratory of Molecular Ecology of Vectors and Pathogens
Mission Statement: Vector-borne diseases particularly those caused by tick-transmitted pathogens including spirochetes are damaging for animal and human health. The laboratory is primarily focused on two research prerogatives, an understanding of the biological drivers associated with vector competence of the tick and pathogen variation at the species and strain level. Our goal is at adapting and harnessing molecular, biochemical and bioinformatic tools that will help us understand such differences in aspects associated with tick physiology, pathogen phenotypes and host susceptibility. We want to collaborate with important stakeholders in the public/private sector and to utilize our data for diagnostics, treatment or prediction of the future spread of ticks/diseases.
