Passports in Our Stockings

In January, Eric will begin working with Dr. Stephen Dobson at the University of Kentucky on a project to develop integrated technologies for reducing the primary mosquito vector of lymphatic filariasis in the South Pacific, Aedes polynesiensis. The goal of the project is to develop control technologies that can be used in conjunction with mass drug administration (MDA) for a long enough period of time so that the disease transmission cycle can be broken. Primarily he will be participating in a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation funded project to conduct research in French Polynesia/Tahiti.

For those whose knowledge of the geography of the South Pacific is a bit foggy, Tahiti is one of the many islands that constitute French Polynesia (Bora Bora is another one of the islands). It is located about 2400 miles southeast of Hawaii. The most populous city on the island (and in the territory) is Papeete. We anticipate that we will be living in or around the commune of Paea, although that is yet to be determined. We're excited and nervous about moving to a foreign land where we will learn new languages (French and Tahitian), attend new schools, and participate in new professional activities. We're looking forward to Island life and all it entails-snorkeling, surfing, and hip-shaking dancing! If you come to visit while we are there we will definitely greet you with a warm Bienvenue and Iaorana!