I study the evolution and ecology of infectious diseases that emerge from animal reservoirs. My research focuses on understanding how natural and man-made processes aid the evolution of pathogens. I take a novel approach to this question, integrating tools from high-throughput molecular screening and bioinformatics (Bayesian phylodynamics, network analysis) and ecology (GIS, satellite telemetry, stable isotope analysis). I’m currently studying influenza viruses in wild birds and poultry with the goal of understanding what ecological conditions drive host-switching. I have studied a diverse array of pathogens (Influenza A Virus, Cryptosporidium, Toxoplasma, West Nile Virus) and host taxa (birds, marine mammals, rodents and marsupials) in an effort to find solutions for the control of disease in countries across the globe. A constant theme of my career has been conducting and leading field research in remote parts of the world including Mongolia, Egypt, Bangladesh, Costa Rica and Alaska