Emily Jenkins

Emily Jenkins is Professor and Graduate Chair in the Department of Veterinary Microbiology at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan. Her leadership roles include Head of the Zoonotic Parasite Research Unit, Canadian representative for the International Arctic Science Committee Terrestrial Working Group, and Chair of the Wildlife Health Research Fund.

Her academic credentials include:

• PhD in Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan
• DVM, Western College of Veterinary Medicine
• BSc Hon in Zoology, University of Alberta

Dr. Jenkins' research centers on zoonotic parasitic diseases, with emphasis on detection, characterization, and epidemiological investigation of parasitoses. She investigates climate change impacts on disease ecology at the human-animal-environment interface and addresses food security risks for country foods in Canada's North. Her work employs a rigorous One Health framework integrating molecular biology, epidemiology, and community engagement to tackle emerging threats in northern ecosystems.

Her publication record (2013-2020) reveals consistent focus on Arctic wildlife parasitology, featuring studies on Trichinella in wolverines, Toxoplasma gondii in Nunavik, and global echinococcosis distribution. These works demonstrate interdisciplinary approaches combining phylogeography, serological detection, and community-based digital storytelling to address climate-driven zoonotic risks.

Dr. Jenkins leads the Zoonotic Parasite Research Unit and maintains critical affiliations with the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative and School of Public Health, enabling collaborative research on parasite ecology across northern communities and wildlife populations.