Tim Harvey-Samuel, Thomas Ant

Tim Harvey-Samuel and Thomas Ant are researchers affiliated with the University of Missouri–St. Louis and Department of Biology. They co-authored a pivotal 2021 study on Culex quinquefasciatus, a mosquito species threatening island bird populations through disease transmission. Their work focuses on genetic control strategies to mitigate ecological harm.

Research Interests: Their work intersects vector biology, genetic engineering, and conservation biology, addressing the spread of mosquito-borne avian pathogens (malaria, poxvirus) in island ecosystems. Key methods include Wolbachia transinfection, radiation-based sterilization, and transgenic approaches.

Recent Publications: The 2021 article examines Culex quinquefasciatus as a vector for avian diseases in Hawaii, New Zealand, and Galápagos, proposing genetic tools for population control. It aligns with broader research into invasive species management and tropical disease ecology.