My research in health ecology focuses broadly on the interactions between small mammals (rodents, insectivores, bats) and pathogens. It aims to describe these interactions and their variability across time and space, and to understand the ecological mechanisms that govern their evolution. As part of my work on zoonoses and the risks of emerging diseases, I focus on characterising reservoirs and zoonotic agents, analysing the macro- and micro-evolutionary processes that shape the diversity of reservoir/pathogen interactions, and assessing the impact of co-infections and microbial flora on the susceptibility of small mammals to certain potentially zoonotic pathogens. I am conducting this research within multi- and trans-disciplinary projects to co-develop small mammal management strategies that are ‘win-win’ for biodiversity conservation and public health.

Keywords: zoonoses, health ecology, rodents, mammals.