The Insectary

If you have followed us for long, youve probably heard of our facilitys supercomputer and laser systems. However, the first thing I like to reveal when telling people about the lab is the mosquito insectary. Not only is it slightly bizarre having colonies of pests nurtured and bred mere feet away from where I work everyday, but the insectary serves a vital role in several of the labs projects.

The insectary consists of the supplies and equipment needed to grow mosquitos, and is housed in rooms that mimics the temperature and humidity of India and Sub-Saharan Africa, where these species originate. Biologists Barcin Acar and Emma Mullen conduct experiments and observations at all stages of the insects lifecycle in order to gain a better understanding of their behavior, anatomy and vulnerabilities so that we can have every advantage possible in the fight against malaria. Barcin and Emma work closely with Photonic Fence and other projects, providing invaluable support to disease eradication efforts.

Learn more at http://intellectualventureslab.com