How birds evolve after disease outbreaks

Host evolution in the wake of contemporary outbreaks of disease

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · NIH-11018111

This study looks at how birds in the Galapagos Islands change and adapt when faced with new diseases, helping us learn more about their survival and what this means for conservation and public health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TUCSON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11018111 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how bird populations, particularly in the Galapagos Islands, adapt and evolve in response to emerging diseases. By examining the effects of two historical parasite introductions on local avian species, the research aims to understand demographic changes, life history adaptations, and genetic evolution in these birds. The study utilizes a natural laboratory setting to observe real-time evolutionary processes, providing insights into how diseases impact host populations over time. Patients can benefit from understanding these evolutionary dynamics, which may inform conservation efforts and public health strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals interested in avian biology, ecology, and conservation, particularly those in regions affected by zoonotic diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who are not interested in ecological research or who do not reside in areas impacted by zoonotic diseases may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of disease impacts on wildlife and inform strategies to mitigate zoonotic disease risks to humans.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding evolutionary responses to disease in wildlife, indicating that this approach is grounded in established scientific inquiry.

Where this research is happening

TUCSON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Disease, Disease Outbreaks, disease risk, Disorder, disorder risk

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.