We seek to understand the fundamental patterns and processes by which viruses evolve and spread through populations. 

We're characterising the virosphere by revealing the full biodiversity of viruses on earth. From this, we're determining the basic rules of virus ecology and evolution.

Much of our time is also being devoted to using ‘meta-transcriptomic’ technology to reveal the microbiological cause of specific human and animal diseases, such as tick-borne disease in humans.

Ultimately, our work enables us to determine which viruses and other pathogens are responsible for specific diseases and how best to control them.

1. Characterising the virosphere.
2. Understanding virus ecology and evolution.
3. Understanding how viruses jump species boundaries and emerge in new hosts, including humans.

• Professor Edward Holmes (Research group leader)