VIROLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES
•Medical and Veterinary Entomology •Host Range Evolution •Symbionts •Viruses •Sociovirology •Parasitology •Phages •Vector Control • Population Genetics •Vector Ecology •Vector-Virus Evolution •Microbiomes •Molecular Parasitology
RESEARCH
Are you interested in diseases and how they move around the globe? TTU Biology faculty assess the relationships between pathogens, vectors and their hosts, and track changes in distribution patterns that affect human or veterinary health. We also research mechanisms and controls for integrated pest management plans. We engage in field work, build computer models, and conduct experiments in labs and the insectary. This diverse area of disease biology has our graduate students working across Texas, the United States, as well as Africa. Students who are curious about conducting undergraduate/ graduate research are encouraged to reach out to faculty whose research topics align with their own interests.
TEACHING
TTU Biology offers a wide range of virology and vector-borne disease courses from Applied Virology, Disease Ecology and Evolution, Emerging Pathogens, Insect Diversity, Medical Entomology, Molecular Pathenogenesis of Protozoans, Parasitology, Vector Biology, as well as independent research. Courses like Disease Ecology and Evolution, Insect Diversity and Medical Entomology are available in an online format. Many courses have labs and/or require field work. Check out the VBD certificate information below.
Current course offerings via Open Classes
VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES CERTIFICATE
Anticipated Fall 2024: TTU Biology is pleased to start offering a Vector-Borne Diseases certificate program for both undergraduate and graduate students. This program aims to provide Texas Tech students with a solid foundation in entomology, vector biology, and related fields, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in fields such as public health, vector control, and entomology. The development of this certificate is supported by the CDC Rockies and High Plains Vector-borne Disease Center (RaHP VEc). Read more about the RaHP VEc.
BIOLOGY INSECTARY
In 2023, TTU Biology established an insectary for research. State of the art facility with dedicated ACL1 general rearing spaces and ACL2 experimental spaces. Currently three different species in colony, including multiple global strains of Aedes aegypti, a locally developed strain of Aedes albopictus, and a research strain of Culex tarsalis. Specimens from the colonies provide the backbone of our research into vector competence, feeding behavior, and insecticide resistance.
Department of Biological Sciences
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Address
Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Box 43131 Lubbock, TX 79409 -
Phone
806.742.2715 -
Email
biology@ttu.edu