Insecticide Resistance in UK Culex pipiens: Distribution, Mechanisms and Environmental Drivers
Supervisors:
Prof Heather Ferguson, School of Biodiversity, University of Glasgow
Dr Francesco Baldini, School of Biodiversity, University of Glasgow
Dr Marta Schocket, Lancaster University
Summary:
Mosquito-borne diseases are emerging as a growing threat across Europe, including the UK, where West Nile virus has recently been detected in mosquitoes for the first time. However, little is known about whether UK mosquito populations are developing insecticide resistance, a phenomenon that is reducing the effectiveness of vector control programmes worldwide. This PhD project will provide the first nationwide assessment of insecticide resistance in the common house mosquito, Culex pipiens, the principal vector of West Nile virus and an important vector of Usutu virus.
The student will investigate three key questions: (1) Do UK Culex pipiens populations show evidence of resistance or reduced susceptibility to public-health insecticides? (2) Which genetic and molecular mechanisms underlie any resistance observed? (3) How do environmental factors such as urbanisation, agricultural intensity, climate and pollution influence the emergence and distribution of resistance? Combining field surveys, insecticide bioassays, molecular analyses and environmental modelling, the project will generate essential knowledge to support future preparedness and response to mosquito-borne disease outbreaks in the UK.
The student will receive comprehensive training in entomological field methods, mosquito surveillance, phenotypic insecticide resistance testing, molecular biology and environmental modelling. Transferable skills will be developed through NorthWestBio training courses and retreats, including systematic review, statistical analysis, scientific writing and presentation skills. This unique combination of ecological, molecular and quantitative expertise will prepare graduates for careers in academia, public health, government agencies, environmental consultancy and the biotechnology sector.