Jennifer Poole

My research involves investigating climate change effects on interactions between the host, pathogen and host microbiome. Specifically, my PhD is looking at how different seasonal temperatures affect the microbiome and immunity of the Eastern Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens) to chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis; Bd). This will involve:

• Predicting their range shifts using Species Distribution Modelling
• Using outdoor mesocosms to house Bd infected salamanders under different overwintering and summer temperatures to look at their immunity and microbiomes to chytrid fungus in semi-natural conditions
• Investigating potential low-cost mitigation techniques to reduce the impact of Bd. 

As chytrid fungus and climate change have resulted in extirpations and extinctions of amphibian populations, this research will help further our understanding of climate change-disease interactions and aid the future of amphibian conservation.

Email: [email protected]