Danielle M Tufts

Danielle M Tufts is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology at the University of Pittsburgh. Her research focuses on vector-borne disease ecology, evolutionary genetics, and host-vector-pathogen interactions, particularly for tick-borne pathogens like Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease) and Babesia microti (babesiosis).

• Education:
  • BS, Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology, University of California, Davis (2005)
  • MS, Biological Sciences, University of Texas, Tyler (2008)
  • PhD, Biological Sciences-Integrative Evolutionary Biology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2013)
  • Postdoctoral Researcher, Vector-Borne Diseases, Columbia University (2019)
  • Associate Research Scientist, Vector-Borne Diseases, Columbia University (2020)

Key research themes include vertical transmission of B. microti in reservoir hosts, host specialization of B. burgdorferi, immunological responses to Lyme disease, and control strategies for invasive ticks like Haemaphysalis longicornis. Recent publications highlight her work on transmission dynamics, pathogen evolution, and urban vector ecology.

Teaching roles include co-directing courses on Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases, and Vaccines and Immunity.