Ali Afify

Ali Afify is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Drexel University, specializing in insect olfaction and mosquito behavior. His research focuses on understanding the neural basis of mosquito olfactory behaviors, particularly the egg-laying behavior of malaria mosquitoes, to develop novel control strategies. He holds a PhD in Natural Sciences from the University of Konstanz, an MS in Zoology from Cairo University, and a BS in Plant Protection from Cairo University.

Education:

• PhD, Natural Sciences, University of Konstanz, 2014
• MS, Zoology and Agricultural Nematology, Cairo University, 2009
• BS, Plant Protection, Cairo University, 2001

His research interests include sensory neurobiology, mosquito oviposition behavior, and malaria control. He has investigated chemosensory cues guiding mosquito egg-laying and developed tools like genetically encoded calcium indicators for studying olfactory neurons. His work bridges basic science and applied research, aiming to reduce disease transmission through innovative repellent and trapping strategies.

Awards & Fellowships:

• Alfred Blalock Young Investigator Award (Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 2020)
• Fulbright Fellowship
• International Max Planck Research School Fellowship
• Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute Fellowship

Ali’s postdoctoral work at Johns Hopkins University’s Potter Lab explored mosquito repellent mechanisms. At Drexel, he continues studying Anopheles olfaction to advance vector control. His research integrates behavioral, electrophysiological, and genetic approaches, contributing to global health efforts against malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases.