Tomos Prys-Jones

Currently I am studying for a PhD in bioinformatics at Northern Arizona University in the research group of Professor Chris Doughty. My lab is interested in understanding how megafauna, classified as species >44.5 kg, distribute nutrients, seeds and recently microbes. The benefits of moving seeds and nutrients means that the dispersal is classified as an ecosystem service. Free-roaming megafauna tend to homogenize nutrients across a landscape and allow plant species to move within their potential ranges, thus preventing genetic stagnation. We have also characterized the impacts of megafauna extinctions that occurred during the Late Pleistocene, a time when many large species went extinct due to a combination of anthropogenic effects and climate change.

My work focuses on understanding how megafauna move microbes. A recent modelling project from our group suggests that the historical extinctions of megafauna are associated with an increased risk of zoonoitc diseases emerging into present day human populations. A curious result, and one that we are investigating further. At present, I am working on microbe transmission in intact ecosystems. Specifically, I have focused on migration corridors, where a large proportion of the megafauna are only present for part of the year. In this way, I can compare bacterial transmission networks when the migrants are present and absent.

Prior to my current studies, I completed an M. Phil in developmental neuroscience and a bachelor’s degree in Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge, Department of Zoology. I very much enjoy fieldwork and have previously completed campaigns in Southern Africa and Peru. Outside of academia I like to play rugby, swim, play percussion in a funk band and paint.

November 2019