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J. Evan Ward, Ph.D. (evan.ward@uconn.edu)
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I am an experimental biologist whose research interests are directed toward an understanding
of the dynamic relations between marine animals and their environment. My students and I
study processes ranging from the organism to ecosystem level, and are particularly interested
in the behavior and physiology of commercially important, suspension-feeding species
(e.g., clams, mussels, oysters, scallops). Currently, I have two projects related to
Oceans and Human Health:
1. Linking Marine Pathogens to Molluscan Shellfish:
The Ecological Role of Marine Aggregates. In this
study we are focusing on marine aggregates as a link between
pathogens (e.g., Dermo, QPX, bacteria) and bivalves (oysters,
clams). We are testing the hypothesis that marine aggregates
enhance the transmission of shellfish diseases by serving
as reservoirs and vectors for the pathogens.
2. Emerging Pollutants: Transfer of Nanomaterials
Through the Food Chain. In this project we are
examining the uptake and accumulation of nanomaterials by
suspension-feeders. We have already demonstrated that aggregates
facilitate the uptake of bacteria and bacterial-size particles
(0.5-1.0 um) by suspension-feeders, and are now testing
the hypothesis that aggregates also provide a route by which
nanoparticle pollutants can be ingested and thus enter the
food chain.
For more information about my research visit www.marinesciences.uconn.edu/faculty/ward.html
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