Matt Bolek

Associate Professor Matt Bolek is affiliated with the Department of Integrative Biology at Oklahoma State University. His research focuses on parasite ecology, evolution of parasitic life cycles, and taxonomy, particularly in amphibians and aquatic invertebrates. He explores how host and parasite life histories co-evolve, affecting parasite community structure and biogeography. Bolek has contributed to understanding host-parasite interactions in turtles, snails, and other hosts, emphasizing ecological and evolutionary dynamics. His work spans molecular phylogenetics, experimental infections, and field studies.

His teaching includes courses like General Parasitology and Ecological and Evolutionary Parasitology, reflecting his expertise in parasitic systems. Awards include the 2019 Henry Baldwin Ward Medal. Bolek collaborates on projects involving nematomorph worms and their terrestrial life cycles, as well as cryptic species identification in parasites. His lab investigates host specificity, parasite transmission pathways, and the impact of environmental factors like herbicides on host-parasite interactions.

Key contributions include describing new species of Gordionus (Nematomorpha), analyzing reproductive strategies of pinworms (Gyrinicola batrachiensis), and resolving taxonomic ambiguities in parasitic worms. His research bridges ecological and evolutionary parasitology, with implications for biodiversity and wildlife health.