Available Student Projects
1. Expanding Aedes population suppression and population replacement tools using Wolbachia
This project aims to further develop and refine our Aedes mosquito population suppression tools using Wolbachia-induced incompatibility and sterility. Wolbachia, a naturally occurring bacterium, can be introduced into Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus populations to create incompatibilities between infected and uninfected mosquitoes, leading to reduced reproduction and population decline. By optimizing Wolbachia strains and release strategies, this project seeks to increase the repertoire of tools to either suppress mosquito populations, or replac mosquito populations thereby decreasing the transmission of diseases like dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.
2. Genome evolution exploration in malaria mosquitoes from the Southwest Pacific
Exploring genome evolution in malaria mosquitoes (Anopheles) from the Southwest Pacific provides valuable insights into the mechanisms driving adaptation in these disease vectors. We have identified differences in biting behavior, including host preferences and for feeding times, that are likely shaped by both genetic and environmental factors. In the unique biogeographically diverse ecological settings of the Southwest Pacific, some mosquitoes have evolved distinct biting patterns in response to human activity, climate, and the presence of alternative hosts. Genomic studies can help reveal the underlying genetic changes that drive these behaviors, shedding light on how mosquitoes might shift from biting animals to humans or change their activity periods to avoid control measures. Understanding these behavioral adaptations is key to developing new and vector control strategies.
3. Molecular ecology of the arbovirus vectors in the Culex sitiens subgroup through Australasia
This project aims to investigate the molecular ecology of arbovirus vectors within the Culex sitiens subgroup across Australasia, and particularly the main vector Culex annulirostris. The project will ficus on understanding the genetic diversity, population structure, and evolutionary dynamics that influence their ecology and potential to transmit arboviruses such as the endemic Ross River virus and the recent exotic Japanese encephalitis outbreak that occurred in 2022.
4. Modeling Gene Drive spread in the Southwest Pacific malaria mosquito Anopheles farauti
This PhD project focuses on modeling gene drive strategies in Anopheles farauti, a primary malaria vector in the Southwest Pacific, using MG-Drive modeling framework. The project will involve simulating various gene drive constructs to assess their potential impact on mosquito populations and malaria transmission. By exploring factors such as drive efficiency, resistance development, and ecological impact, the research aims to optimize gene drive designs for effective and sustainable vector control in the future. The outcomes will provide valuable insights into the feasibility and risks of deploying gene drives in Anopheles farauti, contributing to the development of innovative malaria control strategies.
5. Field-ready molecular diagnostics for identifying cryptic mosquito species in Australasia
This project aims to develop portable molecular diagnostics for rapid identification of cryptic mosquito species in the Indo-Pacific region. By designing and validating molecular assays that target specific genetic markers, we will create easy-to-use diagnostic kits suitable for field use. These tools will enhance mosquito surveillance by enabling accurate species identification in real-time, critical for effective vector control. Field trials will validate the kits' performance, and local health teams will be trained to integrate these diagnostics into routine surveillance, improving mosquito control and disease management efforts across the region.
This project aims to further develop and refine our Aedes mosquito population suppression tools using Wolbachia-induced incompatibility and sterility. Wolbachia, a naturally occurring bacterium, can be introduced into Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus populations to create incompatibilities between infected and uninfected mosquitoes, leading to reduced reproduction and population decline. By optimizing Wolbachia strains and release strategies, this project seeks to increase the repertoire of tools to either suppress mosquito populations, or replac mosquito populations thereby decreasing the transmission of diseases like dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.
2. Genome evolution exploration in malaria mosquitoes from the Southwest Pacific
Exploring genome evolution in malaria mosquitoes (Anopheles) from the Southwest Pacific provides valuable insights into the mechanisms driving adaptation in these disease vectors. We have identified differences in biting behavior, including host preferences and for feeding times, that are likely shaped by both genetic and environmental factors. In the unique biogeographically diverse ecological settings of the Southwest Pacific, some mosquitoes have evolved distinct biting patterns in response to human activity, climate, and the presence of alternative hosts. Genomic studies can help reveal the underlying genetic changes that drive these behaviors, shedding light on how mosquitoes might shift from biting animals to humans or change their activity periods to avoid control measures. Understanding these behavioral adaptations is key to developing new and vector control strategies.
3. Molecular ecology of the arbovirus vectors in the Culex sitiens subgroup through Australasia
This project aims to investigate the molecular ecology of arbovirus vectors within the Culex sitiens subgroup across Australasia, and particularly the main vector Culex annulirostris. The project will ficus on understanding the genetic diversity, population structure, and evolutionary dynamics that influence their ecology and potential to transmit arboviruses such as the endemic Ross River virus and the recent exotic Japanese encephalitis outbreak that occurred in 2022.
4. Modeling Gene Drive spread in the Southwest Pacific malaria mosquito Anopheles farauti
This PhD project focuses on modeling gene drive strategies in Anopheles farauti, a primary malaria vector in the Southwest Pacific, using MG-Drive modeling framework. The project will involve simulating various gene drive constructs to assess their potential impact on mosquito populations and malaria transmission. By exploring factors such as drive efficiency, resistance development, and ecological impact, the research aims to optimize gene drive designs for effective and sustainable vector control in the future. The outcomes will provide valuable insights into the feasibility and risks of deploying gene drives in Anopheles farauti, contributing to the development of innovative malaria control strategies.
5. Field-ready molecular diagnostics for identifying cryptic mosquito species in Australasia
This project aims to develop portable molecular diagnostics for rapid identification of cryptic mosquito species in the Indo-Pacific region. By designing and validating molecular assays that target specific genetic markers, we will create easy-to-use diagnostic kits suitable for field use. These tools will enhance mosquito surveillance by enabling accurate species identification in real-time, critical for effective vector control. Field trials will validate the kits' performance, and local health teams will be trained to integrate these diagnostics into routine surveillance, improving mosquito control and disease management efforts across the region.
The Solomon Islands malaria research vehicle
