An ecological approach to zoonotic parasite invasion into the UK through pet movement and climate change.

Pet travel and imports bring risks of zoonotic parasite introductions. Changes in pet travel rules, commercial activity and rehoming from overseas have broadened possible sources and routes of infection, while the likelihood of exotic parasite establishment increases as climate warms. Although several important zoonotic diseases have been imported into the UK in recent years and more threaten to arrive, there has been limited ecological input into risk assessment. This project will apply invasion biology theory to these risks by combining knowledge of pet movements and climate-driven variation in suitability for establishment.

The project connects the fields of parasitology, ecology and disease modelling in an unusual way, since invasion biology is rarely applied to diseases, and will benefit from supervisory expertise in these fields and social science, providing for broad training and experience. The student will develop skills in invasion biology, diagnostic parasitology and modelling disease risk under climate change. An important element will consider how patterns of pet movement are changing and the reasons behind this. The successful applicant will work with policy makers and other stakeholders, including CASE partners ESCCAP UK & Ireland, to apply cutting-edge science to pressing societal problems and improve human health and animal health and welfare.