I have finally decided on my thesis topic for my master's program: the effects of human environmental change (aka "athropogenic" environmental change) on mosquito borne diseases. I am going to be exploring such issues as globalization, climate change, and deforestation/reforestation through four different diseases: malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, and an emerging virus: chikungunya.

It's fun to say, especially after a couple of glasses of wine. Researchers, however, refer to is as "chik." So I'm a Chik Chick.

I know. If it's too funny (and I know it is!), I will pause briefly while you compose yourself.

I've been working with Discover Magazine to do a short piece about new information on mutations in Chik that enable it to be transmitted much more easily. At any rate, the virus has been in the news after traveling to Italy.

And here, in a brief encapsulation of my thesis topic, is a story in today's New York Times:

As Earth Warms, Tropical Virus Travels to Italy

I will be campaigning in January for travel money. I don't expect a dime (money is, after all, short, and I don't think the reasoning of good food makes a good thesis will hold much water with the Graduate Student Organization), but it might be worth the effort.

Wish me luck!