Dr Sarah Arnold, Senior Lecturer in Insect Behaviour and Ecology, works to understand the behaviour and ecology of animals that transmit disease.
She said: “Covid probably originated in animals. As humans move further into biodiversity-rich areas, such as rainforests, animals are forced out of their natural habitat.
“This forces them into closer contact with humans which means we are more likely to have these diseases passed on to us.
“Our work in the Natural Resources Institute also looks at agricultural sustainability and food systems with the aim of finding ways of supporting the growing human population without increasing its footprint. This can reduce the stress on biodiversity hotspots.”
Dr Abigail Rickard, head of biology, added: “From molecular biology, to genetics, climate change and more, students who take biology at the university can tailor their course to what interests them most. The career opportunities are endless.”
