Understanding Global Change Drivers and Infectious Disease

Presented by Jason Rohr

In these two sessions, we will have interactive laboratory experiences, short lectures, and engaging group discussions regarding infectious diseases of humans and wildlife. Participants will explore how infectious disease has affected cultures and societies, and how cultural practices and values have impacted infectious disease risk throughout history. We will also discuss how global change is modifying infectious disease risk for humans and wildlife, contributing to declines in biodiversity. Participants will have the opportunity to safely interact with snails, amphibians, and macroparasites in the lab. Given the rising interest in infectious disease due to the recent COVID pandemic, we are optimistic that the content learned in these two sessions will be applicable to teaching science, math, history, and other classes.

About Jason Rohr

Jason Rohr is the Galla Family Professor and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences. He studies how environmental change affects infectious disease risk of wildlife and humans. Much of his work has focused on disease-related amphibian declines and human schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease impacting 140+ million people. He is particularly interested in how climate change, pollution, land use change, and biodiversity affect disease risk. He has a Masters of Arts in Teaching and has taught Parasitology, Animal Behavior, and Biostatistics for over a decade.