Several of the research programs in our department are currently investigating insects that can transmit diseases or that otherwise threaten public health. Read more about each program below.
Dr. Brown's laboratory investigates new ways to control and monitor insects that are of concern to public health officials.. Currently, the laboratory focuses primarily on mosquitoes and sand flies, and the diseases they vector. This research is conducted in collaboration with public health agencies and private corporations. Visit the Public Entomology Laboratory homepage for more information.
The Dobson laboratory focuses on Wolbachia, a naturally-occuring genus of bacteria that infects mosquitoes and other insects. Because Wolbachia can manipulate reproduction in its host, the Dobson laboratory is studying ways to modify mosquito populations by selectively infecting them with Wolbachia. Visit the Dobson Laboratory homepage for more information.
In recent years, bed bugs have made a comeback, with pesticide-resistant populations of the pests showing up in urban areas all over the United States. A team of University of Kentucky researchers are working to improve understanding of bed bug behavior and biology, and to devise better means to control this important biting insect.
