Maureen Laroche

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT MAUREEN LAROCHE

I am a Medical entomologist from Martinique, currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch. I lead a Medical Entomology and Clinical Bacteriology laboratory focused on the development of affordable and high-throughput tools for vector-borne disease surveillance. We have unique expertise in developing MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry databases for the identification of vectors, the detection of the pathogen they carry, and other entomological endpoints that are highly relevant for the surveillance of vector-borne diseases. We also study the ecology, epidemiology and transmission of vector-borne bacterial pathogens, hoping to improve the management of vector-borne bacterial diseases in neglected communities with limited access to healthcare, such as internally displaced people, migrants and people experiencing housing insecurity. Additionally, we aim to improve the understanding of the transmission and virulence of endotheliotropic bacterial pathogens.I lead a diverse team of medical doctors, veterinarians, epidemiologists and entomologists from Peru, Colombia, Nigeria, France and the US. Together, we are all committed to conducting equitable public health research that benefits all.