Thomas Simmons

Dr. Thomas Simmons is a Professor in the Biology Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania's Kopchick College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. His research focuses on the ecology of disease vectors, particularly ticks and mosquitoes, and their role in transmitting pathogens like Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease), Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and arboviruses.

• Education: BA in Zoology (SUNY Oswego), MA in Biology (SUNY Oneonta), PhD in Biology (St. John's University), Postdoctoral Fellowship in Toxicology (University of Rochester School of Medicine)
• Courses Taught: Emerging Diseases, Environmental Health and Protection, Epidemiology, Applied Entomology, Ecological Toxicology, Parasitology

His work spans vector ecology, parasitic relationships, and environmental toxicology. Recent publications highlight studies on Ixodes scapularis (blacklegged tick) distribution, urban Lyme disease risk, and water mite parasitism of mosquitoes. Earlier studies explored antioxidant enzyme mechanisms in insects and toxicant effects on aquatic organisms.

Article trends reveal a shift from aquatic toxicology (1980s-1990s) to contemporary vector-borne disease research. Collaborations with researchers like Hutchinson and Duchamp emphasize field studies in Pennsylvania ecosystems.