The McMillan and Brelsfoard labs are academic partners in the Rockies and High Plains Center for Vector-Borne Diseases (RaHP VEC), which is a newly funded CDC Training and Evaluation center. This is a multi-institutional center focused on training students and professionals in vector biology, control, and surveillance and helping local mosquito control operators and public health departments improve their programs. Our primary regional focus includes the Rockies and High Plains regions of the US - our primary institutional partners are located in Colorado, Utah, and Texas. There are many sub-objectives of our center - each lead by a different member institution - so please check out our website linked above for more information on the center.
Activity 1: TRAIN
One of our core missions is to train undergraduate and graduate students alike in all aspects of vector biology, control, ecology, epidemiology, and surveillance. We are using a number of mechanisms to achieve these goals:
Evaluate the needs/strengths/weaknesses of current academic course offerings for undergraduate and graduate students in vector-related topics throughout our region
Develop core course training programs at TTU and CSU that emphasis professional development in vector biology while also offering a undergraduate/graduate certificate in Vector Biology
Recruit and enroll MS level students interested in pursuing vector biology as a professional career. These students will gain valuable hands on experience in vector control and surveillance and will work side by side with our local project partners.
Provide opportunities for undergraduate students to gain experience and exposure to a career in vector biology, control, and surveillance
Activity 2: EVALUATE
In addition to improving educational and work force outcomes related to vector biology, we are also pursuing a number of projects in the region all aimed at improving the operational performance of vector control and surveillance tools, strategies, and programs. A number of projects will go online Summer 2024 in Amarillo, Lubbock, and throughout the West Texas region. Our goals are to:
Evaluate and improve the current operational performance of multiple vector control interventions and surveillance programs
Encourage and support the on-boarding of new vector control/surveillance programs in the region
Please check back often for updates on individual projects!
Activity 3: Partnership
Meet our lab's local partners