We are a research group based at the University of Sydney, focused on the ecology of infectious diseases at the wildlife-domestic animal-human interface. Led by Prof. Michael Ward, and funded by the Australian Research Council, our team uses tools from spatial epidemiology, network science, and field ecology to better understand and manage disease risks in changing environments.
Our Research
Research Themes
Wildlife-livestock interactions
Disease transmission modelling
Network analysis
Disease Ecology Lab Projects
- Defining the wild-domestic animal interface and microbial spillover risk, Ward M, Australian Research Council (ARC)/Australian Laureate Fellowships
- Feral Pig Control Modelling Framework (2024–2027)
Funded by Queensland Feral Pest Initiative, this project aims to optimize control strategies for feral pigs across Queensland using spatial and behavioral data.
- Developments of the integrative hypothesis of specialization (2024-2026). Funded by FAPESP 23/03083-6, led by the Ecological Synthesis Lab PI: Prof. Marco Mello, AI: R. Muylaert. This project aims at investigating practical applications of the integrative hypothesis of specialization for understanding socio-ecological interactions related to complex systems involving human, animal, and environmental health.
Funding
Our people
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City Road, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia