Protozoology promotes the wellbeing of people

Protozoology promotes the wellbeingofpeople

My research in evolution and population genetics examines various organisms and populations. As is typical of basic research, most of my research looks at life forms and biotic communities that have not been studied before.

First, we aim to clarify the meaning of biotic communities as parts of their ecosystem. Now we are already able to study the effects of climate change on the functioning of these microscopic organisms and biotic communities.

It is difficult to forecast how research results will affect the wellbeing of humans. However, by studying a parasite of a tiny sea worm I can apply that knowledge to the parasites typical for humans, for example, malaria-causing plasmodium and toxoplasma, which may occasionally be transmitted from cats to humans.

Genetic engineering has advanced my field in a groundbreaking way, offering new technologies and tools to explore the function of genes. Genetic engineering has had, and will continue to have, a significant role for the wellbeing of people. I have a positive view of genetic engineering, with the presumption that researchers are tied to ethical guidelines.

To promote the wellbeing of humanity, I hope for closer cooperation between different disciplines and governments and proactive communication about research in a way that is easy to understand. The role of us teachers is significant, and this is what I want to promote in my work: I encourage students to impact society actively and communicate about science in a way that is easy to understand.

EmilyKnott is an acting professor of evolutionary genetics and a senior lecturer in evolutionary genetics at the Department of Biological and Environmental Science.