The Department conducts research on a wide range of vector biology and vector-borne disease related fields. These range from field based surveillance and control programs to molecular investigations of pathogen and vector genomics. Our research areas fall into the following general categories: Vector Surveillance; Pathogen detection within vector samples; Vector avoidance; Vector control and Basic research.

Vector Surveillance. Evaluation of novel vector surveillance strategies, equipment, and technologies. Design geographical information systems and conduct spatial analyses for all field studies. Test vector attractants.

Pathogen detection within vector samples Conduct serosurveys to assess pathogen prevalence Conduct studies on pathogen detection and isolation in vectors and vertebrate hosts Collaborate with various agencies to conduct outbreak response investigations

Vector avoidance Test novel methods to prevent vectors from blood feeding. These may include bednets, barrier materials and repellents

Vector control Evaluation of vector control strategies and equipment Evaluate new products and formulations for mosquito and sandfly protection

Basic research Insecticide resistance studies Studies to analyze P. falcipurum antimalarial drug resistant polymorphisms. Basic ecology and behavioral studies of sandflies and mosquitoes to facilitate applied control Molecular studies of pathogen-vector interactions with P. falcipurum and Leishmania spp.