Dr. Olivia Luande

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Olivia Wesula Luande focuses her research on virus-mosquito-host interactions, particularly studying how mosquito-borne viruses are transmitted between mosquitoes and their subsequent hosts. Her research involves exploring the factors that influence the ability of these viruses to infect and spread among susceptible hosts, including the roles of gut flora in mosquitoes. She aims to understand the nature of these viruses and their amplification in hosts such as birds, humans, and livestock. Currently, she is investigating the capacity of native Swedish mosquitoes to transmit potentially emerging viruses like the West Nile virus, identifying amplifying hosts and performing experimental infections to determine transmission dynamics among wild-caught native Culex mosquitoes in Sweden. The findings from her work aim to provide valuable insights into the epidemiology and the prevention and control of mosquito-borne diseases in Sweden and beyond. Luande leads her own research group, emphasizing a passion for research, teaching, and mentorship.

Research Interests

Experience

Research Fellow

2012-01-01 — 2013-12-31

Umeå University • Umeå, Sweden

Conducted research on the transmission of mosquito-borne viruses and their interactions with host organisms.

Requirements for Umeå University

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:2.5
IELTS
Listening
Required:5.5
Reading
Required:5.5
Writing
Required:5.5
Speaking
Required:5.5
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Writing
Required:20
Total
Required:90
PTE
Overall
Required:62
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree (180 ECTS) in relevant field At least 90 ECTS in the main subject area
Application Checklist
  • Bachelor's degree certificate
  • Transcripts of records
  • Proof of English proficiency
  • Copy of passport
  • Letter of Motivation (certain programs)
  • CV (certain programs)
Specialization Notes

Requirements are standard for Master's programs across Social Sciences and Humanities at Umeå. English 6 proficiency is the general rule.