Grants and Contributions:

Grant or Award spanning more than one fiscal year. (2017-2018 to 2022-2023)

The study of the dynamics of host-pathogen systems, such as the spread of an infectious disease, or an outbreak of an agricultural pest, is a central part of many ecological and social applications. Such systems often show a threshold for pathogen persistence or disease-outbreak. Mathematically similar systems arise when studying co-existence of several species or of traits within a population. In a structured population, where the structure might be due to dependence of behaviours affecting transmission on age, location, health, or vaccination status, these thresholds depend on the details of the structure. If this structure is static, then we can consider a single threshold for pathogen persistence. Of more interest is the case where the structure is dynamic, either changing from a sudden disturbance, or by gradual changes accumulating over time. This changing population structure can lead to opportunities for pathogens to invade, and conversely, we may be interested in control of the pathogen by changing the population structure. I propose to study a variety of applications involving host-pathogen systems within a changing population structure and to work towards a general theory of such systems.

We will develop, analyze and test models for several specific applications. Ongoing research projects include biological invasions and control strategies for infectious diseases. Tunicates are spreading throughout Prince Edward Island, Canada, and this spread is influenced by the spatial pattern of suitable substrate, including mussel leases and docks. Models and observations suggest that the natural spread of tunicates can be controlled by careful monitoring and regular cleaning of certain key potential settlement areas. Similarly, the spread rate of the Emerald Ash Borer depends on the spatial arrangement and age of host trees. Understanding this dependence by developing and validating a model for host selection will lead to interventions which slow the insect's spread. More generally, the spatial structure of a host population or habitat will influence the spread rate of a pathogen or pest.