Environmental intelligence for vector-borne diseases in zoonotic landscapes

• Grant number: 25/12016-6
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: November 01, 2025
• End date: October 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Parasitology - Entomology and Malacology of Parasites and Vectors
• Mobility Program: SPRINT - Projetos de pesquisa - Mobilidade
• Principal Investigator: Gabriel Zorello Laporta
• Grantee: Gabriel Zorello Laporta
• Principal researcher abroad: Kimberly Fornace
• Institution abroad: National University of Singapore ,
• Host Institution: Centro Universitário FMABC (FMABC). Santo André , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: Santo André
• Associated research grant: 21/06669-6 - Follow-up of zoonotic landscapes under deforestation and land-use changes in the Amazon, AP.JP2

Abstract

This initiative aims to enhance the use of drone-based imagery for environmental monitoring by advancing supervised classification techniques capable of detecting land use and land cover changes. By refining methods that identify not only deforested areas but also more subtle forms of forest degradation, such as changes in vegetation structure and the loss of key tree species, we seek to deepen our understanding of how different types of environmental disturbance influence the risk of zoonotic disease emergence. A central component of the proposal is the development of training programs and workshops aimed at students and specialized professionals, particularly in the fields of public health, environmental sciences, and remote sensing. These capacity-building activities will focus on the practical application of drone technologies, Earth observation data, and spatial analysis in the context of vector-borne disease research, a core focus of this collaboration. The proposal also represents a strategic opportunity to consolidate a long-term international scientific partnership. Through the joint design of integrated research projects and co-authorship of proposals to funding agencies in São Paulo and Southeast Asia, we aim to strengthen a collaboration dedicated to understanding environmental change and the emergence of infectious diseases. This builds on previous joint work on zoonotic malaria and other health risks in both Brazil and Southeast Asia. (AU)