by Dr. Michelle L. Power, Macquarie University,
and Dr. Stephanie S. Godfrey, University of Otago
Michelle L. Power, Associate Professor
Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University
Biological Sciences, PhD, Macquarie University, 2003
Zoology, Bachelor of Science, Macquarie University, 1997
Phone: +61 2 9850 6974
Email: michelle.power@mq.edu.au
Biography
Michelle is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences. Her research career began a parasitologist and has now broadened to consider co-infection and disease ecology within Australian ecosystems. She is particularly interested in reverse zoonoses or the transmission of disease agents from humans to wildlife species. An interest that has seen emphasis on studies examining the dissemination of antimicrobial resistant bacteria to wildlife species and subsequent impacts for wildlife health. She studies a suite of pathogens with an emphasis on gut parasites (Cryptosporidium and Giardia) and bacteria, and the interactions of these agents with diverse hosts (flying foxes, possums, koalas, Tasmanian devils, penguins, Australian sea lions and people). Michelle is particularly interested in paraiste epidemiology and zoonotic risks. Her research outcomes are significant for human health and wildlife health and the growing global issue of emerging infectious diseases. She also uses innovative ways to increase public awareness on issues of AMR. The use of Citizen Science through the Scoop a Poop project has both enganged citizens through knowledge and active participation in the project. Every layout comes with the latest social features built in. Readers will be able to easily share posts on social networks like Facebook and Twitter, view how many people have liked a post, made comments and more. With Wix, building your online community has never been easier.
Stephanie S. Godfrey, Lecturer
Department of Zoology, University of Otago
Phone: 64-3-479-7963
My research revolves around the question of how animal behaviour influences the spread of parasites through host populations?
How does the way in which animals move through their environment and interact with others, influence the movement of parasites through host populations? On an individual basis, an individuals’ popularity or sociability may influence its risk of becoming sick; while on a population level, the patterns of contact within a population (social organisation) may influence the overall dynamics of infections. I use social network models (a bit like facebook!) to model how patterns of animal contact may influence the transmission of parasites through wildlife populations. Of course, studying both animal behaviour and host-parasite ecology means that I also get to indulge in research in both of those areas, both of which I find equally fascinating.
See my Google Scholar page for an up to date list of my publications.