Andrew van den Hurk

Andrew van den Hurk has studied the ecology, surveillance and control of mosquito-borne diseases for over 25 years.

He assesses the entomological and virological factors that could lead to the emergence of devastating viruses, such as dengue, West Nile, yellow fever and chikungunya, in Australia. Much of this work is conducted using live mosquitoes, animals and arboviruses, which must be contained under strict Physical Containment Level 3 (PC3) conditions.

Dr van den Hurk also has a wealth of experience undertaking entomological field work in urban environments, as well in remote and rural regions, such as Cape York and the Torres Strait. Through the development of a number of diagnostic assays, he has enhanced the detection of arboviruses and the identification of mosquito species.

Dr van den Hurk embraces cutting edge technology, such as next generation sequencing, to increase our understanding of arboviruses and their vectors. He collaborates with most research groups and state government authorities within Australia who are involved in the study and control of mosquito-borne diseases. Importantly, he recognises the necessity for translation of project outcomes into public health policy and practice.