Lab Mission

Our mission is to conduct high quality, innovative research, mentoring and extension activities that can be used to combat mosquito-transmitted disease, and to raise awareness of the biology of mosquitoes, mosquito-transmitted pathogens, mosquito control tools and mosquito-associated microorganisms amongst those at risk from mosquito-transmitted disease, including residents of Florida, the general public, and those involved in mosquito control.

Research: Our goal is to implement an exciting, innovative, collaborative, and extramurally-funded research program that will improve understanding of mosquito vectors of disease. Specifically, our intent is to build knowledge of interactions between mosquitoes and microorganisms, with the view that this information can be used as the foundation for building new mosquito control tools, and improving existing strategies.

Extension & Outreach: A key responsibility for scientists is to effectively communicate their findings with stakeholders. As mosquito-transmitted disease is a major public health issue, there are many groups of people who could benefit from learning more about this issue. In addition to our scientific research, the lab has a dedicated extension focus. We are highly invested in improving public knowledge on mosquitoes and their biology, and to working closely with those involved with mosquito control to transfer knowledge about emerging mosquito control tools.

Teaching & Mentoring: Students, technicians and postdocs drive a laboratory's research program, and this means that effective teaching and mentoring must be a fundamental characteristic of a successful lab. The laboratory has a strong cultural focus on mentoring, and we aim is to provide students and trainees with an environment that is collaborative, diverse, open and supportive in order to facilitate learning, and help trainees to achieve their goals. We are strongly invested in improving access to research and academia for those who have historically (and currently) faced barriers that limit their opportunities.