Ms Lucy de Lataillade

I am an entomologist and microbiologist specialising in vector-borne diseases and mosquito–microbiome interactions. I completed my PhD in Public Health and Entomology at The University of Hong Kong’s Centre for Immunology & Infection within the Faculty of Medicine’s School of Public Health. My doctoral research focused on identifying novel vector control targets within the mosquito microbiome, including developing techniques to identify immune-enhancing bacteria, conducting 16S rRNA library preparation and downstream analysis across multiple species, and investigating interactions between Hong Kong Aedes albopictus, Wolbachia, and Dengue virus.

I now work in Grant Hughes’ group, where my research focuses on Wolbachia–Anopheles interactions and their implications for vector biology and disease control.

Before and during my doctoral studies, I developed a strong background in entomology, virology, and microbiology through an Engineer’s degree in Research and Applications in Bioengineering in France (2014–2019), research engineer positions at the Institut Pasteur in Paris, and a research assistant position at the Centre for Immunology and Infection in Hong Kong.

I have also gained extensive international research experience through internships at Institut Pasteur and participation in medical entomology courses and conferences worldwide. My work has been recognised with several grants and awards, including the Best Presentation Award at the European Mosquito Control Association 2025. I am passionate about addressing global public health challenges and committed to advancing the understanding of vector-borne diseases through interdisciplinary research and collaboration.