Clinical Assistant Professor; Clinical Assistant Professor
of
Biology Ph.D. 2005 (Environmental Information Science) Cornell University
M.S. 1999 (Ecology) SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
B.A. 1994 (Environmental Studies) Binghamton University
Postdoctoral Research Associate with Richard S. Ostfeld, Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Millbrook, NY
Postdoctoral Researcher with Jonathan Adams, Department of Biological Science, Rutgers University-Newark, Newark, NJ
Areas of Research/Interest: The use of GIS, remote sensing and modeling to explore spatial and temporal variability in ecosystems.
My current research is focused on the spatial dynamics of Lyme disease and other tick-borne pathogens in two different ecosystems.Spatial dynamics of ticks and tick-borne diseases in Dutchess County, NY.
In Dutchess County, an area where Lyme disease is endemic, we are interested in the spatial distribution of the black-legged tick, Ixodes scapularis, and potential environmental correlates. Additionally, we are studying the effects of host communities on Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis. Sudden Oak Death and Lyme disease in northern California Forest communities in northern California are being altered by Sudden Oak Death. The change in forest species composition and the creation of canopy gaps may affect the western black-legged tick, Ixodes pacificus, and their hosts. We are studying how tick and host populations are influenced by Sudden Oak Death and the resulting affects on Lyme disease risk.
Associated with other departments or programs: Environmental Studies Program
Selected Works: Teaching
The Global Carbon Cycle (V36.0345) At the Bench: Ecological Analysis with Geographic Information Systems (V23.0064) Biogeochemistry of Global Change (V23.0066) Principles of Biology II (V23.0012 or V23.0014 (honors))
Publications
Killilea, M., A. Swei, B.
Lane, C. Briggs, and R. Ostfeld. 2008.
Spatial Dynamics of Lyme Disease: A Review. Ecohealth 5: 167-195.
