People

I am an integrative biologist interested in how host-microbe interactions shape insect resilience in our changing world. I focus on both host-pathogen encounters as well as insect relationships with their microbiomes. Our lab has a particular interest in the winter biology and temperature-dependence of these interactions. Currently we are focused on mosquitoes and ticks, working towards understanding how their ability to resist and transmit disease will shift with climate change.

You can contact me at laura.ferguson@acadiau.ca

You can find me in the Biology Building (33 Westwood Avenue) room 335

I am a Master's student joining the Ferguson lab after graduating from Acadia with a BSc in Biology.  My research focuses on the impact of climate change on the overwintering success of mosquitoes in Nova Scotia.  I am looking at their overwintering survival after exposure to climate change conditions to see how warming winters will impact their interactions with pathogens and modify their energy use.   When I'm not searching for mosquitoes, you may find me out on a run in Wolfville!

Sammy is an MSc student in the Hillier and Ferguson labs investigating the cold tolerance and overwintering behaviour of introduced predators of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid. Sammy's work will allow us to predict the success of these introduced insects, and folds into the larger efforts of the Hillier lab to establish a rearing and release program to protect hemlock forests in Nova Scotia.

Hi there! I joined Dr. Ferguson’s lab after finishing my BSc in biology at Carleton University. My research will be focusing on insect biomass and biodiversity in Nova Scotia, trialing a new technique to harness the data contained within the bits of ill-fated bugs smooshed onto the fronts of vehicles. In my free time I’m usually playing video games or on the hunt for bugs and other cool critters!

Maddy is an MSc student studying the blood-feeding habits and spatial distribution of infection of ticks in Nova Scotia.