Evolving Threats and Emerging Solutions: Fundamentals from the Front Lines of Insect-borne Viruses Research

French Scientist in Residence at Green College

Benjamin Matthews, Zoology; Roenick P. Olmo, Centre national de la recherche scientifique and French Scientist in Residence at Green College; and Selena Sagan, Microbiology and Immunology
Coach House, Green College, UBC and livestreamed
Wednesday, November 27, 5-6:30 pm

Unlike applied research, fundamental research often yields findings that may not have immediate practical applications but are essential for driving long-term innovation. Motivated by curiosity and the desire to expand knowledge, fundamental research seeks to answer questions of why, what, and how. However, there is an increasing emphasis on research with immediate practical applications, often driven by political and economic pressures. This round table will discuss the pivotal role of fundamental research in advancing our understanding of mosquito-borne viruses and mosquito biology, bringing together Dr. Selena Sagan, Dr. Benjamin Matthews, and the French Scientist in Residence at Green College Dr. Roenick Olmo to explore how factors influencing viral evolution, mosquito behavior, and antiviral resistance mechanisms can inspire and support the development of innovative technologies to disrupt transmission of mosquito-borne viruses. This round table aims to inspire collaborative efforts in fundamental research, strengthening our global capacity to combat arbovirus threats.

Roenick Olmo:
The Importance of Interdisciplinary Approaches in the Emergence of New Technologies to Prevent Arbovirus Transmission

Ben Matthews:
Thinking Outside the Box: What Does it Take to Create a Research Model, and Which Lessons Can We Learn?

Selena Sagan:
The Evolving Landscape of Mosquito-borne Viruses Worldwide, and How Exploring Pathogen Evolution May Lead to Novel Insights and Solutions