Jack Hearn

Jack Hearn is an Applied Data Scientist at Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), affiliated with the Veterinary And Animal Science department and the Centre for Epidemiology and Planetary Health (CEPH). He holds a PhD in Genetics from the University of Edinburgh (2009–2013), following a Master's (University of Edinburgh, 2007–2008) and Bachelor's (Imperial College London, 2004–2007).

His research focuses on insecticide resistance mechanisms in malaria vectors, particularly Anopheles species, and explores genetic, epidemiological, and molecular aspects of parasitology. Notable projects include studying pyrethroid resistance in Anopheles funestus and investigating the genetic basis of resistance in Psoroptes ovis, a parasite of cattle. He has held external roles as an Associate at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (2018–2022) and the University of Edinburgh’s Institute of Evolutionary Biology (2013–2018).

Recent work emphasizes genomic and transcriptomic approaches to identify resistance markers, such as CYP450 enzymes and structural variations. Collaborations span Africa and Asia, addressing global health challenges in vector-borne diseases. His current project (2024–2027) investigates resistance mechanisms in sheep scab mites, targeting macrocyclic lactone resistance.

Publications (46+ articles) highlight contributions to understanding resistance evolution, metabolic pathways, and community-wide treatment impacts on parasitic infections. Research outputs span BMC Genomics, Genetics, and Nature Communications.