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Our research portfolio spans diverse areas of parasitology, examining everything from molecular interactions to entire populations. Our work combines expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, epidemiology, population genetics, and mathematical modeling, incorporating both lab experiments and field studies.
Parasites present intriguing biological puzzles due to their ability to thrive within host organisms. Their survival strategies are a major research focus, offering opportunities for groundbreaking discoveries that could improve disease control. Nearly all organisms host parasites, and much of our work investigates how these pathogens cause illness and how to effectively manage infections in humans and animals. A key part of this involves enhancing current treatments and deciphering drug resistance mechanisms. We also explore the epidemiology, ecology, and genetic diversity of parasites, as these factors critically influence transmission patterns and control strategies.
Our studies target several tropical parasites responsible for significant diseases, such as Plasmodium species (malaria), Trypanosoma species (sleeping sickness), Leishmania species (leishmaniasis), and Theileria (East Coast fever/theileriosis), as well as filarial worms that cause elephantiasis. We also investigate UK-endemic parasites like Toxoplasma gondii and economically damaging livestock parasites that threaten agricultural productivity and global food security. Since many parasites rely on vectors for transmission, we're expanding our research into vector biology, particularly focusing on mosquitoes and ticks. Our ultimate goal is to translate research insights into practical solutions—improving diagnostic tools, therapeutics, and vaccines to support disease control programs.