Program research paper profiled on the home page of NSF

Jobbins, Sanderson, and Alexander have recently published a paper identifying the presence of a  public health threat in Botswana previously unidentified - read more at www.nsf.gov

Sarah Jobbin's (left) tests samples in the Botswana field laboratory. Human waste in these systems (below, left)  can be ubiquitous and can  influence contact between humans and wildlife and disease transmission in these systems.

CARACAL UNTAMED - Alexander Laboratory reaching out to assist Botswana

CARACAL UNTAMED - fundraising event and party night!

This amazing event and all the supporting materials were prepared by Claire Sanderson, a post doctoral associate on the NSF project! Way to go Claire!!! We need more people with your heart!

check out our event video 

 Our program attempts to integrate research with outreach and education. Waste is an important threat to humans and animals in the system. Our educational program incorporates research results into action. Here, children in our conservation and education program participate in a trash pick up day! They had a wonderful time and also contribute to a culture of change where ecosystem function and service is identified and valued. We need to work to sustain those services and the health of the ecosystem, and ultimately the health of the  humans and animals that depend on and are affected by the ecosystem.

Dr. Alexander collects data and water samples from public taps serving the community in Northern Botswana. Water quality changes occur not only in river but at collection points. Waste and water around the tap attracts both domestic and wild animals to the area. Increased interaction between humans - wildlife - and waste has the potential to greatly transform the landscape change pathogen transmission potential and risk. As humans change the environment, these change come back to influence the health of animals and humans. Our recent work identified that the highest level of drug resistance in banded mongoose (above) occurred  in the Chobe National Park. Under this program, we are attempting to identify landscape features that promote exchange of microorganisms and the spread of antibiotic resistance. Where are the linkages between humans and their natural environment?

Wild Animals Found Resistant to Antibiotics- project publication

Wild Animals Found Resistant to Antibiotics
A journalist assesses the work of our team and the implications to human and animal health. You can download this paper at www.caracal.info.