Tracking the mothers: applying microsatellite genetic makers to guide strategies for controlling Anopheles mosquito larvae

Joel's interest is in molecular entomology and malaria control. He aims to develop genetic microsatellite markers for Anopheles arabiensis, and use these to assign larvae to unknown mothers, determining how many females oviposit in artificial and natural habitats in western Kenya based on early instar-larval abundance. Findings will contribute to informing novel vector control interventions targeting gravid females, and improve our ability to study vector dispersal and population structures. Joel will be mentored and supervised by Dr Ulrike Fillinger and Dr Daniel Masiga at the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, and Dr David Weetman at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine.

This grant was awarded under the scheme's previous name of Master's Fellowships in Public Health and Tropical Medicine.