The Consortium

IRD (the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development) is a well-respected and internationally recognized multidisciplinary research organization with nearly 80 years of experience collaborating with countries in the Global South and French overseas territories. Committed to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, IRD is renowned for its equitable scientific partnerships and interdisciplinary approach to sustainability science, which emphasizes citizen engagement. As an institute operating under the authority of the French ministries responsible for higher education and research, as well as European and foreign affairs, IRD plays a pivotal role in advancing research and innovation. The researchers from IRD involved in the INOVEC project are primarily affiliated with the MIVEGEC Joint Research Unit, the largest French laboratory focused on the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases. However, other research units specializing in zoonotic and neglected tropical diseases (INTERTRYP) as well as data sciences and geography (ESPACE DEV) are also actively involved in the project.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Systematics, deep learning and imaging technologies;
• Insecticide testing and behavioural studies;
• Sociological sciences expertise;
• Training and teaching;
• Project management and coordination.

CIRAD (The French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development) promotes sustainable and inclusive agricultural systems in tropical and Mediterranean regions. With a focus on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, it mobilizes science, innovation and training to support a wide range of stakeholders, including producers and policymakers. CIRAD’s expertise focuses on biodiversity protection, agro-ecological transitions, the sustainability of food systems, health, the sustainable development of rural territories and resilience to climate change. Founded in 1984, CIRAD is a public industrial and commercial establishment (EPIC) under the dual authority of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation and the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, supporting French scientific diplomacy. The Research Unit whose researchers integrate INOVEC, « Animal, Health, Territories, Risks, Ecosystems » (ASTRE), is part of Biological Systems (BIOS) scientific department of Cirad, and develops research, training & expertise activities to improve animal and public health in developing countries (https://umr-astre.cirad.fr/en). ASTRE is based on the Cirad Baillarguet campus in Montpellier and has an international presence in Africa, South-East Asia, the Caribbean, and the Indian Ocean.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Field expertise on entomological monitoring, mark-release-recapture procedures and release of sterile males;
• Social sciences expertise.

CNRS (the French National Centre for Scientific Research) is a world-renowned research institution that is dedicated to advancing knowledge in a wide range of fields. Its scientists work across disciplines to explore the living world, matter, the Universe, and the functioning of human societies, with the aim of addressing the major challenges of today and tomorrow. As a leading institution in the world of Research & Development, the CNRS is a reference for scientists, academics, and professionals around the globe. It is also committed to sharing its knowledge and expertise with the general public, through outreach and dissemination activities. Its Alpine Ecology Laboratory (LECA), whose researchers are involved in the INOVEC project, conducts research related to biodiversity and adaptation in the context of environmental and climate changes. The vector team (led by the focal point of the CNRS, Jean-Philippe David) shows a strong expertise in the genetics of adaptation to insecticides in mosquitoes and other pest insects.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Genetics of insecticide resistance and molecular assays development;
• Insecticide testing, controlled crosses and experimental evolution.

CSIC (the Spanish National Research Council) is at the forefront of Spain’s Science, Technology, and Innovation System. Within this entity, INOVEC researchers are affiliated with the Centre for Advanced Studies of Blanes (CEAB), a noted institution in biodiversity research. These researchers contribute to the Theoretical and Computational Ecology Group, using mathematical and computational techniques to advance ecological theory. The aim is to synthesize theoretical and empirical data via the integration of stochastic processes and quantitative methods in ecology. With a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach, distinct research lines and theoretical foundations are established for observational and empirical ecological studies. Specializations include analysis of data-rich systems in the spheres of Population Ecology, Community Ecology and Biodiversity, Movement Ecology and Behaviour, Invasion Biology, and Epidemics.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Citizen science tools (apps, internet platforms), methods and modelling;
• Trajectory-based and behavioural mosquito quantification;
• Field sites for testing mosquito traps in natura;
• Teaching and training in citizen science.

ENSEA (the French National School of Electronics and its Applications) is a Graduate School in Engineering and Computer Science that prepares students for careers in general engineering fields such as electronics, IT, telecommunications, and embedded systems. Located in the Val d’Oise region of France, in the city of Cergy-Pontoise, ENSEA is an autonomous public institution authorized by the CTI (Commission for Engineering Titles) since 1952 to confer the prestigious « Diplôme d’Ingénieur » to its graduates, attesting to the high quality of education it provides. Beyond its academic programs, ENSEA engages in research activities, within its two hosted research laboratories, of which the ETIS laboratory is involved in the INOVEC project. The Joint Research Unit ETIS, which is common to the ENSEA, Cergy Paris University and the CNRS, counts about 105 researchers and is devoted to AI and Robotics; Signal & Telecoms; Electronics of Autonomous Systems; Big Data & Multimedia Indexing, and Data Learning.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Acquisition system compatible for an “on-the-field” mobile app;
• Design and implementation of robust and low-cost machine learning;
• Computer vision strategy for embedded smart systems and Proof of Concept (PoC) design.

Fiocruz (the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation) is a leading institution in science and technology in health in Latin America, operating under the Ministry of Health in Brazil. Fiocruz is committed to promoting health and social development, generating and disseminating scientific and technological knowledge, and acting as an agent of citizenship. These guiding principles shape the foundation’s actions and contribute to its prominent status in the field of public health. The laboratory of Biology, Control, and Surveillance of Insect Vectors (Laboratório de Biologia, Controle e Vigilância de Insetos Vetores – LBCVIV), involved in INOVEC, is part of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC) and focuses on studies related to the biology, surveillance, and control of insect vector-borne diseases. Notably, the researchers are responsible for nationwide monitoring of insecticide resistance in Aedes aegypti and Anopheles mosquitoes, as well as conducting evaluations to improve the Ministry of Health’s vector control actions.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Lab and field facilities for testing surveillance tools;
• Validation of diagnostic tools;
• Testing of intelligent traps;
• Novel insecticides;
• Social sciences surveys;
• Teaching and training.

FORTH is the largest research institution in Greece, with well-organized facilities, highly qualified personnel and a reputation as a top-level research foundation worldwide. FORTH includes 10 Institutes, among which, the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB) at Heraklion, Crete. The wide-range of research activities of the Institute aim at understanding the basic principles of the biological processes operating in living organisms. IMBB also hosts interdisciplinary research programs at the interface of biology with informatics, chemistry, physics or medicine and is heavily involved in providing post-graduate students high-level education through joint graduate programs with the University of Crete. An additional standing mandate of IMBB is the exploitation and translation of acquired knowledge to tangible societal benefits, including the development of new technologies, innovative products and services. In the Entomology field, IMBB has gained its reputation already through participation in the early yeast, Drosophila, Anopheles genome projects, the development of gene transfer technology in insects and a vast experience in medical and agricultural entomology, concentrating on insecticide resistance. The areas of interest of John Vontas’ research group include the understanding of mechanisms by which disease vectors and agricultural pests develop resistance to insecticides, as well as exploring novel insecticide targets and biotechnology-based approaches to monitor and control insects, including the development of novel Molecular Diagnostics products.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Development and validation of new molecular diagnostics;
• Insecticide testing and evaluation;
• Dissemination of the research results.

IHI is a leading African health research organization that has earned a strong reputation for developing, testing, and validating innovative health solutions. With a core strategic mandate for research, training, and services, IHI’s work covers the entire research lifecycle, ranging from basic science to policy and translation. The institute is organized into three main research departments: Environmental Health & Ecological Sciences, Interventions & Clinical Trials, and Health Systems, Impact Evaluation & Policy. In addition to these departments, IHI has six research units and seven technical units that support its research activities. IHI has major offices in three locations across Tanzania, including Ifakara, Bagamoyo, and Dar es Salaam.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Validation of multiplexing molecular diagnostic tools;
• Conducting lab, semi-field and field tests for testing and evaluation of new repellents, attractants and trapping devices;
• Testing 3D behavioural assays in natura;
• Training and teaching;

ILM (the Louis Malardé Institute) is a public institution of industrial and commercial nature in French Polynesia that operates under the supervision of the Minister of Health. The institute carries out analysis, research, and trading activities related to health, environment, hygiene, and food. Its main missions include conducting research programs to support the general health policy, participating in disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, providing medical biology examinations and training to research personnel and public health service agents. The ILM also contributes to the protection of the environment to promote sustainable development. Additionally, it is a major player in monitoring infectious diseases like dengue fever, Zika, and chikungunya, and is authorized to acquire and sell serums, vaccines, and other products related to the prevention and treatment of health conditions.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Field sites for testing and validating intelligent traps, mass trapping devices and Static Induction Transistor (SIT) devices.

IRSS (Institute for Research in Health Sciences) is one of four institutes of the National Center for Scientific and Technological Research (CNRST) under the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation (MESRSI). Its primary mission is to advance training and education through health research, as well as to disseminate scientific and technical information related to health and promote the results of its research. As a leading institution in Burkina Faso, the IRSS is committed to conducting innovative research that addresses key health challenges facing the country and the African continent.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Field experimental stations for testing and validating new insecticides, smart traps and Static Induction Transistor (SIT) devices;
• Training in social-sciences;
• Hosting a social sciences workshop;
• Training and teaching;
• Entomology training.

Swiss TPH is a global leader in research, education, and services in global health, with a focus on low-and-middle-income countries. Associated with the University of Basel, Swiss TPH brings innovative diagnostics, drugs, and vaccines directly to people, communities, policy makers, and decision makers. With over 900 employees and students, Swiss TPH works on infectious and non-communicable diseases, environment, society and health, as well as health systems and interventions, pursuing sustainable impact in over 100 countries.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Field experience in mosquito surveillance;
• Expertise and facilities to test new vector control tools;
• Set-up to track mosquito behaviour in 3D;
• Expertise in mathematical modelling;
• Teaching and training in entomology.

Unesp is one of the largest and most important universities in Brazil, known for its multicampus structure with 34 units across 24 cities in the state of São Paulo. Its regional distribution is so extensive that a circle with a radius of 100 kilometers around each city covers almost the entire state. As a public university maintained by the government of São Paulo, UNESP provides quality education to over 55,000 students in 63 undergraduate programs and over 150 graduate programs in all fields of knowledge. Unesp is also acknowledged for its strong commitment to research, which has positioned it as a top scientific institution in the country. With investments and a strategic plan for internationalization, Unesp is recognized as a reliable partner within the scientific community. In addition, Unesp interacts with society by providing services and extension projects that contribute to the formation and better understanding of students regarding the real problems of Brazilian society. The laboratory managed by Dr. Ribolla, named PANGENE, is located at Unesp’s Institute of Biotechnology. This Institute houses a Genomics and Proteomics facility, with state-of-the-art equipment and staff. The PANGENE laboratory develops projects related to malaria and dengue vectors, working with molecular biology and population genetics to develop new methodologies for controlling these vectors.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Synthesis and delivery of sRNAs;
• Lab and semi-field-controlled facilities for testing new larvicides
• Development of natural repellents for personal protection.

UNL (the New University of Lisbon) is a distinguished public higher education institution that strives to serve society on a local, regional, and global level. The university is committed to advancing and disseminating knowledge and understanding between cultures, societies, and people through excellent teaching and research. The researchers of the UNL who are part of the INOVEC project are affiliated with its organic unit IHMT. IHMT conducts research, provides training, technical assistance, cooperation, and services to the community in the fields of public health and tropical medicine. IHMT has been at the forefront of research on tropical diseases, often within networks and partnership projects, warranting a strong international presence. The Research & Development (R&D) capacity of IHMT was recently congregated into a new research center, Global Health and Tropical Medicine, which obtained a classification of “Excellent” in the 2013 evaluation of Portuguese R&D Units. In this research center, the vector-borne diseases group develops R&D activities on multiple aspects of both vectors and the pathogens they transmit including molecular epidemiology, population genetics drugs and drug/insecticide resistance and diagnostics.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Lab & Field testing of new traps;
• Mathematical modelling and risk assessment;
• Planning and analysis of semi-field pilot experiments;
• Training and teaching (workshop, digital educational materials and conferences;
• Communication of research results.

UoM is located in Reduit, at the heart of Mauritius. Established in 1965 with a national perspective, UoM started with three schools — Agriculture, Administration, and Industrial Technology. Today, it has grown to include seven faculties: Agriculture, Engineering, Medicine and Health Sciences, Law and Management, Science, Social Sciences & Humanities and Information, Communication and Digital Technologies. UoM is committed to enhancing its teaching methodologies and incorporates Innovative Learning Technologies such as distance education and online learning. UoM has evolved over the years and is now recognized as the top university in the country, with a focus on research and consultancy, and developing undergraduate and postgraduate programs that meet the needs of the Mauritian economy. The vision of the university is to position the UoM as a research-engaged and entrepreneurial university. The Health Informatics Research Group of UoM, which is part of INOVEC, explores the use of high-end informatics concepts and technologies in the area of health with a view to allow healthcare systems to improve their services and to allow patients to benefit from information technology for better monitoring their health conditions and enjoy improved health. The group is also working on research projects geared towards disease surveillance.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Development of mobile application for vector identification;
• Validation of image recognition and classification and data acquisition.

UOXF is steeped in rich academic tradition and currently holds the top ranking in the 2023 Times Higher Education World Rankings. With a wide range of academic disciplines, including medical sciences, mathematical, physical, and life sciences, humanities, and social sciences, UOXF is a global leader in innovation, research, and teaching. Despite being the oldest university in the English-speaking world, UOXF is committed to both tradition and innovation and has embraced a culture of entrepreneurship, supporting social enterprise by creating over 130 university spin-outs to date.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Social scientific research methods adapted to vector control interventions
• Evaluation and governance of citizen science platforms;
• Regulation of novel vector control tools.

Biogents is a leading specialist in mosquito and other disease vector control. The company is renowned for developing and producing highly efficient, affordable, and insecticide-free mosquito traps that are used by scientists, healthcare professionals, mosquito control specialists, and consumers worldwide. Furthermore, Biogents’ service branch conducts Research & Development studies on the effectiveness of anti-mosquito products and provides consulting services on mosquito control to municipalities and the hotel industry, among others.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Screening for attractants and repellents;
• Testing and validation of mosquito traps and attractants in the lab, the semi-field, and under field conditions;
• Training

Envu is a new company founded in 2022 by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to promoting healthy environments for all. The company offers a wide range of services, including professional pest management, forestry, ornamentals, golf, industrial vegetation management, lawn and landscape, mosquito management, and range and pasture. Envu believes in collaborating with its customers to provide innovative and sustainable solutions that go beyond simply relying on chemicals. Its goal is to help customers achieve long-term benefits through sustainable practices.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Characterize mosquito lines;
• Molecular biology to access insecticide resistance in insects such as mosquitoes;
• Insecticide and product testing.

EnzyQuest is a biotech start-up located in Heraklion, Crete, that specializes in the development and commercialization of innovative molecular biology products for RUO and IVD applications. With a team of experienced professionals in enzyme discovery and manufacturing, EnzyQuest uses a unique combination of artificial intelligence and wet-lab methods to identify enzymes from organisms that have adapted to extreme natural conditions over billions of years. These enzymes have applications in research, health, and the food industry. EnzyQuest’s vision is to utilize the billions of years of nature’s evolutionary diversity into the service of today’s biotech industry to enable more efficient and environmentally friendly processes in the biotech industry.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Lyophilisation and enzyme formulation technologies;
• Production of molecular and enzyme-based diagnostics.

IAEA is the primary intergovernmental forum for scientific and technical cooperation in the nuclear field worldwide. Established in 1957, the IAEA is dedicated to promoting the peaceful, safe, and secure use of nuclear science and technology, contributing to global peace and security, and supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The IAEA collaborates with its Member States and numerous partners around the world to achieve these objectives. With a workforce of approximately 2,500 staff members from over 100 countries, the IAEA provides diverse and stimulating job opportunities in a dynamic multicultural environment. The majority of its staff members are based in Vienna, Austria, and possess expertise in a wide range of scientific, technical, managerial, and professional fields.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Expertise and platform on mass-rearing, sex-sorting and automatic systems for release of sterile male mosquitoes;
• International reference laboratory for sterilization procedures of insects.

Irideon is an innovative company founded by experienced engineers to provide expert technical consultancy services and innovative solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises and research organizations in Europe. The company specializes in information and communications technologies and sensor systems, and have developed Senscape®, a standards-based platform for fast time-to-market Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. Continuously refined and expanded, Senscape® delivers customized, scalable sensor-based cloud and mobile applications to their clients.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• IoT technologies, sensors, wireless communication protocols, cloud computing and machine learning;
• Data merger from smart traps and citizen science models.

Mapa Technology is a Spanish-based company that provides a wide range of information technology (IT) services to various industries. With a focus on delivering high-quality solutions, the company specializes in software development, digital media, business intelligence, mobile applications, content management, and IT consulting services. With a team of experienced professionals and a commitment to excellence, Mapa Technology works closely with its clients to understand their needs and deliver innovative and effective solutions that help them achieve their business objectives.

Key contributions to INOVEC

• Expertise in the development of mass rearing equipment, automation of rearing procedures and automated release machines of mosquitoes by ground and by air with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV);
• Image analysis.