Dr Robert Morris BSc

Personal Statement

I completed my Biology (BSc) undergraduate degree in Liverpool John Moores University before moving to Belfast to undertake my PhD. My PhD project was investigating the molecular basis that drives host finding behaviours in entomopathogenic nematodes; they’re also known as beneficial nematodes as they’re used globally to protect crops from soil dwelling insect pests.

My main interests are found in parasitology, nematology and neglected tropical disease. Current my research is focused on the parasitic nematode Strongyloides ratti, where I am working alongside Professor Mark Viney to identify the molecular mechanism that controls a developmental switch in these nematodes where they can develop into a parasitic or a free living lifestyle.