Investigate the complex dynamics between of host-pathogen–vector–host–environment interactions components to foster innovative, science-driven solutions that enhance vector-borne disease control capacity and preparedness for emerging threats.
1. Characterize pathogen transmission dynamics across endemic regions improving early-warning capacity and outbreak prediction;
2. Investigate mechanisms of drug resistance tracking their spread within natural pathogen and vector populations and identify novel therapeutic targets and candidate compounds;
3. Study vector bioecology and vectorial competence, including the dispersion of insecticide resistance in key vector species;
4.Assess and validate new insecticide and repellent candidates, and implement alternative, ethical, and sustainable next-generation vector control tools
5. Monitor the effects of climate, land use and environmental changes on vector and reservoir populations and on the disease epidemiology;
6. Explore vector–host–pathogen interactions and the influence of the microbiome to uncover determinants of susceptibility and resistance to infection, and to identify new agents for blocking transmission or infection.
VBD will employ state-of-the-art methodologies, including genomic epidemiology, spatial modeling, omics technologies, immunological and molecular biology tools, in vivo and in vitro models, in silico drug discovery, and artificial intelligence–driven analytical approaches.
VIASEF will enable research on human vector-borne pathogens in non-native and invasive arthropods, thereby expanding experimental capacity and innovation potential.
VBD research will build on current ongoing projects, as CLIMOS consortium on climate change and disease spread, the University of California – Irvine Malaria Initiative, and the Ministry of Health of São Tomé and Príncipe for malaria control. Collaborations have been established with the University of Maryland through the President’s Global Impact Fund and major international consortia — including the LeishMan Surveillance Network, Anopheles gambiae 1000 Genomes Consortium, INOVEC and the African Network to Implement Bloodless Mosquito Diet.
Citizen science project MosquitoWeb will continue to promote community-based mosquito surveillance in Portugal, reinforcing GHTM’s commitment to the One Health approach and global disease prevention.
The recently approved EU-The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Insects as Solutions for a Sustainable Future (ISSF), a two-year, 120 ECTS joint degree program offered by four European universities, will bring international students fostering expertise in insect science, sustainability, agriculture, biotechnology, and public health.
These initiatives will consolidate GHTM’s leadership in vector-borne disease research, capacity development, global health preparedness, and contribute to sustainable vector control strategies and resilient health systems worldwide.
Recent Highlights
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GHTM marks World Malaria Day 2026, highlighting research innovation in the fight to end malaria
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The TEAM
