Investigators
Professor Nick Golding (The Kids Research Institute Australia & Curtin University) , Dr Gerry Ryan (The Kids Research Institute Australia & the University of Melbourne)
Project description
Mosquito vector data are collected in a myriad of different ways by multiple data collectors for a wide variety of purposes. They are distributed in literature, among individual scientists, organisations and countries that are not always well connected. In isolation, these data are able to answer the questions they were collected to address, but when combined, their value multiplies. The Vector Atlas aims to update and create vector species maps and spatial products that improve disease prediction, mitigation and preparedness. This project will build a Vector Atlas data-hub that links ‘core’ (e.g. existing vector occurrence, bionomics and insecticide resistance data, MAP covariates) and ‘complimentary’ (e.g. GBIF, MalariaGEN, VectorBase, Amplicon Panel project) data resources to provide a ‘one stop shop’ of relatable and cross-referenced data access. Using our standardised and comprehensive collation protocols, core data resources will be fully updated.
The Vector Atlas data hub will enable the integration of historical and ongoing collections of data through systematic methods founded on well-defined ontologies. These data will underpin a suite of intuitive and informative maps generated using cutting-edge modelling techniques.
The Vector Atlas currently focusses on malaria vectors (Anopheles spp.) in Africa and works closely with partners including Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, and other case study countries deliver spatial data and model outputs specifically tailored to inform national actions in the control of mosquito vectors of disease, as well as producing continental scale analyses for broader application in mosquito control.
Partners
University of Oxford, International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology
External collaborators
Dr. Marianne Sinka, University of Oxford
International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology
Funders
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF)