The ability to genetically transform a species and study its genome opens powerful ways to understand its biology. In malaria mosquitoes, this can lead not only to improved control strategies but also to the introduction of genetic traits that reduce their capacity to transmit disease. Since the mosquitoes themselves do the work, it offers a self-sustaining form of malaria control — accessible to all at risk, regardless of healthcare or infrastructure.
Of course, transformative technologies bring public concern. But we are no longer asking these questions in the abstract: we have developed mosquito strains with the potential to do this.
In this lecture, Professor Nolan will share how he entered his field and his role in the discoveries that brought us here — not through a grand masterplan, but by following the opportunities he found most interesting, guided by good mentors, curiosity, luck, and resilience.
About the Speaker: Professor Tony Nolan, Chair in Functional Genetics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine.
Tony is Professor of Vector Biology at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, where he leads the Functional Genetics Group. He helped overcome a long-standing barrier in mosquito research by enabling the first genetic transformation of malaria vectors, opening new ways to study and control them. He went on to lead the development of the first gene drive system in mosquitoes — designed to spread traits through populations to stop malaria — and continues to refine these tools while developing strategies to prevent resistance. His group also uses genome editing to investigate mosquito biology, from mating and reproduction to insecticide resistance. Beyond the lab, they support genetics capacity building in malaria-endemic countries, working with partners across Africa and the UK. Tony also heads LSTM’s Department of Vector Biology, one of the largest centres for mosquito research.
Professor Nolan's lecture will last approximately 45minutes followed by a 15minutes Q&A. Guests will be welcomed to attend a networking reception after the lecture.
Due to the capacity of the venue, space within the main room is limited and guests will be seated on a first come first served basis. The lecture will also be live streamed at the venue if we exceed capacity.
The event will be live streamed and recorded.
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