Skip to main content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Andy Ramey, Ph.D.

Through my service at the USGS Alaska Science Center, I support the development and application of genetic and genomic tools to advance molecular ecology research pertaining to wildlife health and disease, population genetics, and environmental DNA.  Research in the Molecular Ecology Lab promotes informed decisions regarding the conservation of fish and wildlife resources.

I currently serve as the Director of the Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center. The team of scientists working in the Molecular Ecology Lab develops and applies tools to obtain information on the health, distribution, and genomic characteristics of biological natural resources. This includes collecting and interpreting data on the health and disease status of fish and wildlife, the genetics of animal and plant populations, and the distribution of animals and pathogens using environmental DNA. We use this information to help partners and the public to make informed decisions regarding the conservation of fish and wildlife resources.

Professional Experience

  • 2012 - Present   Research Wildlife Geneticist, USGS Alaska Science Center, Alaska

  • 2006 - 2012       Geneticist, USGS Alaska Science Center, Alaska

  • 2003 - 2006      Wildlife Biologist, USGS Alaska Science Center, Alaska

  • 2001 - 2002       Biological Science Technician, Togiak National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska

Education and Certifications

  • Ph.D.  2015   University of Georgia, Athens, GA        Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences

  • B.S.    2001   Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO    Fishery Biology and Wildlife Biology

Affiliations and Memberships*

  • Associate Editor: Journal of Wildlife Diseases (2016 - present)

  • Associate Editor: Ornithology (2020 – present)

  • Member: American Association for the Advancement of Science, American Ornithological Society (elected), Wildlife Disease Association

  • Reviewer: more than 35 journal outlets

Honors and Awards

  • U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Star Award: 2002

  • U.S. Geological Survey Star Award: 2003, 2007 - 2009

  • U.S. Geological Survey performance awards: 2010 - 2022

Science and Products

Filter Total Items: 13
Northern Pintail pair on water, Copper River Delta, Alaska

High Priority Species for Avian Influenza in Alaska

In early 2006, an Alaska Interagency Avian Influenza Working Group was formed to develop a ranking matrix for selecting priority species to be sampled within Alaska. Most wild bird species with populations that utilize areas of both Alaska and Asia were identified and considered in the ranking exercise. Based on scoring criteria, 28 target species were chosen for sampling. Alaska is a...
By
Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Alaska Science Center
High Priority Species for Avian Influenza in Alaska

High Priority Species for Avian Influenza in Alaska

In early 2006, an Alaska Interagency Avian Influenza Working Group was formed to develop a ranking matrix for selecting priority species to be sampled within Alaska. Most wild bird species with populations that utilize areas of both Alaska and Asia were identified and considered in the ranking exercise. Based on scoring criteria, 28 target species were chosen for sampling. Alaska is a...
Learn More
Tundra Swan swimming on a lake in northern Alaska

Bird Migration and Influenza

The movement and transmission of avian influenza viruses in wild birds may differ by the migratory nature of each host species.
By
Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Alaska Science Center, International Programs
Bird Migration and Influenza

Bird Migration and Influenza

The movement and transmission of avian influenza viruses in wild birds may differ by the migratory nature of each host species.
Learn More
John Reed (USGS scientist) holding a gull marked with a satellite transmitter at the Soldotna landfill in June 2016

Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Migratory Birds

Migratory birds, and particularly those using habitats close to human settlements, may be infected with antibiotic resistant bacteria. The USGS is working with public health professionals to understand the role of birds in the maintenance and dispersal of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Additionally, the USGS is investigating how antibiotic resistant bacteria in birds may relate to public and...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center
Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Migratory Birds

Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Migratory Birds

Migratory birds, and particularly those using habitats close to human settlements, may be infected with antibiotic resistant bacteria. The USGS is working with public health professionals to understand the role of birds in the maintenance and dispersal of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Additionally, the USGS is investigating how antibiotic resistant bacteria in birds may relate to public and...
Learn More
Scientist swabbing hunter-harvested ducks in western Alaska

Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America

The USGS has cooperated with federal, state, and tribal partners to conduct research on Avian Influenza (AI) viruses and to assist with response to outbreaks of highly pathogenic AI (HPAI) since 2006. Read ahead for information about HPAI, the occurrence of HPAI among wildlife, USGS-led research and surveillance efforts, and potentially helpful online resources.
By
Alaska Science Center
Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America

Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America

The USGS has cooperated with federal, state, and tribal partners to conduct research on Avian Influenza (AI) viruses and to assist with response to outbreaks of highly pathogenic AI (HPAI) since 2006. Read ahead for information about HPAI, the occurrence of HPAI among wildlife, USGS-led research and surveillance efforts, and potentially helpful online resources.
Learn More
White breasted bird with orange feet, black/brown back, short beak

Q&A: The Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center

The Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center provides genetic information on the health and status of biological resources for diverse local, state, and federal partners. Hypothesis-driven research projects are designed to fill data gaps and inform decisions for Department of Interior and other management agencies. The Molecular Ecology Lab research portfolio currently includes...
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory
Q&A: The Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center

Q&A: The Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center

The Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center provides genetic information on the health and status of biological resources for diverse local, state, and federal partners. Hypothesis-driven research projects are designed to fill data gaps and inform decisions for Department of Interior and other management agencies. The Molecular Ecology Lab research portfolio currently includes...
Learn More
Herring and Glaucous gulls at the Bethel Landfill, Bethel, Alaska

Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria Acquired by Wild Birds in Urban Settings and Dispersed via Migration

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists have developed a model that demonstrates how migratory wild birds in urban areas can acquire bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, including those used in clinics, and potentially disperse these bacteria between continents via migration.
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center
Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria Acquired by Wild Birds in Urban Settings and Dispersed via Migration

Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria Acquired by Wild Birds in Urban Settings and Dispersed via Migration

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists have developed a model that demonstrates how migratory wild birds in urban areas can acquire bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, including those used in clinics, and potentially disperse these bacteria between continents via migration.
Learn More
Filter Total Items: 31

Code, input data, and simulated spatiotemporal distributions and energetic profiles for a model of mallard and northern pintail migration across the Northern Hemisphere Code, input data, and simulated spatiotemporal distributions and energetic profiles for a model of mallard and northern pintail migration across the Northern Hemisphere

These data and code were collected to support the development of a modeling framework that integrates local daily weather conditions and land cover with individual energetics and morphology to simulate mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and northern pintail (Anas acuta) migration across the Northern Hemisphere.The simulated birds move across a discretized landscape of 20 by 20 mile nodes...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center

Data for Detection of Giardia and Cryptosporidium Parasites in Surface Water of a Subarctic City Data for Detection of Giardia and Cryptosporidium Parasites in Surface Water of a Subarctic City

This dataset describes the number and detection of Giardia cysts and Cryptosporidium oocysts in water samples collected from creeks and lakes in Anchorage, Alaska during 2021.
By
Alaska Science Center

Data on Exposure of Wild Mammals Inhabiting Alaska to H5N1 Influenza A Viruses Data on Exposure of Wild Mammals Inhabiting Alaska to H5N1 Influenza A Viruses

This data set describes serological data collected from mammals in Alaska and seropositivity to influenza A, clade 2.3.4.4b H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), North American lineage H5 low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI), and N1 antigens.
By
Alaska Science Center

Data for Genomic Characterization of Highly Pathogenic H5 Avian Influenza Viruses from Alaska in 2022 Data for Genomic Characterization of Highly Pathogenic H5 Avian Influenza Viruses from Alaska in 2022

This data set describes genomic sequence information from 2022 used to infer spatiotemporal trends pertaining to the introductions of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza viruses into Alaska and spread among wild birds, backyard poultry, and mammals.
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory

Data for Infectivity of Wild-Bird Origin Influenza A Viruses in Minnesota Wetlands Across Seasons Data for Infectivity of Wild-Bird Origin Influenza A Viruses in Minnesota Wetlands Across Seasons

This data set represents an ecological and laboratory-based experiment to understand influenza virus viability in surface water. Data tables included in this release consist of 1) daily mean water temperature, 2) viability of viruses maintained in water, 3) influenza detection in duck samples, 4) viral titers of experimentally inoculated water samples, and 5) water chemistry.
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory

Molecular Sexing of Birds Using Quantitative PCR (qPCR) of Sex-Linked Genes and Logistic Models Molecular Sexing of Birds Using Quantitative PCR (qPCR) of Sex-Linked Genes and Logistic Models

This dataset provides cycle threshold (Ct) values achieved during qPCR for 6 sex-linked genes, and two autosomal genes, for individuals from 60 species and across 13 orders of birds.
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory
No results found.
Filter Total Items: 118

A practical decision tool for marine bird mortality assessments A practical decision tool for marine bird mortality assessments

Given the rise in anthropogenic, environmental, and disease events contributing to marine bird mortality, there is a critical need to improve the rigor of mortality assessments. Deficits in data collection and mortality estimation can hinder a manager’s ability to document event scales and inform population level impacts. Therefore, to inform decisions required during activities such as
Authors
Johanna Alexandra Harvey, Andrew M. Ramey, Stephanie Avery-Gomm, Gregory Robertson, Marc Romano, Jennifer M. Mullinax, Megan Boldenow, Philip W. Atkinson, Diann Prosser
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Alaska Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Bait trapping of waterfowl increases the environmental contamination of avian influenza virus (AIV) Bait trapping of waterfowl increases the environmental contamination of avian influenza virus (AIV)

Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) H5Nx clade 2.3.4.4b has circulated in North America since late 2021, resulting in higher rates of morbidity and mortality in wild birds than observed in this region before. The objective of this study was to determine whether baiting, which is widely conducted in Canada and the United States as part of waterfowl management practices (e.g...
Authors
Cassandra Andrew, Landon McPhee, Kevin Kuchinski, Jordan Wight, Ishraq Rahman, Sarah Mansour, Gabrielle Angelo Cortez, Marzieh Kalhor, Ethan Kenmuir, Natalie Prystajecky, Kathryn Hargan, Andrew Lang, James Leafloor, Catherine Soos, Andrew M. Ramey, Chelsea Himsworth
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory

Cooling perspectives on the risk of pathogenic viruses from thawing permafrost Cooling perspectives on the risk of pathogenic viruses from thawing permafrost

Climate change is inducing wide-scale permafrost thaw in the Arctic and subarctic, triggering concerns that long-dormant pathogens could reemerge from the thawing ground and initiate epidemics or pandemics. Viruses, as opposed to bacterial pathogens, garner particular interest because outbreaks cannot be controlled with antibiotics, though the effects can be mitigated by vaccines and...
Authors
Rachel Mackelprang, Robyn A. Barbato, Andrew M. Ramey, Ursel M. E. Schutte, Mark Waldrop
By
Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

Genomic characterization of highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza viruses from Alaska during 2022 provides evidence for genotype-specific trends of spatiotemporal and interspecies dissemination Genomic characterization of highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza viruses from Alaska during 2022 provides evidence for genotype-specific trends of spatiotemporal and interspecies dissemination

The ongoing panzootic of highly pathogenic H5 clade 2.3.4.4b avian influenza (HPAI) spread to North America in late 2021, with detections of HPAI viruses in Alaska beginning in April 2022. HPAI viruses have since spread across the state, affecting many species of wild birds as well as domestic poultry and wild mammals. To better understand the dissemination of HPAI viruses...
Authors
Christina Ahlstrom, Mia Kim Torchetti, Julianna B. Lenoch, Kimberlee Beckmen, Megan Boldenow, Evan J Buck, Bryan Daniels, Krista Dilione, Robert Gerlach, Kristina Lantz, Angela Matz, Rebecca L. Poulson, Laura Celeste Scott, Gay Sheffield, David R. Sinnett, David E. Stallknecht, Raphaela Stimmelmayr, Eric B. Taylor, Alison R. Williams, Andrew M. Ramey
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory

Sero-epidemiology of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza viruses among wild birds in subarctic intercontinental transition zones Sero-epidemiology of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza viruses among wild birds in subarctic intercontinental transition zones

Background: The geographic expansion and evolution of A/Goose/Guangdong/1/1996(H5N1) (Gs/GD) lineage H5Nx highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses since 1996 have raised awareness of enzootic circulation among migratory birds and the potential for intercontinental transport and spread. Recent Pacific- and Atlantic-route introductions of HPAI to North America were facilitated by...
Authors
Jonathon D. Gass, Robert J. Dusek, Nichola J. Hill, Laura Borkenhagen, Jeffrey S. Hall, Gunnar Thor Hallgrimsson, Mary Anne Bishop, Andrew M. Ramey, Timothy J. Spivey, Solvi Runar Vignisson, Sunna Bjork Ragnarsdottir, Halldor Palmar Halldorsson, Jon Einar Jonsson, Alexa D. Simulynas, Felicia B. Nutter, Wendy B. Puryear, Jonathan A. Runstadler
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center

Infectivity of wild-bird origin Influenza A viruses in Minnesota wetlands across seasons Infectivity of wild-bird origin Influenza A viruses in Minnesota wetlands across seasons

The environmental tenacity of influenza A viruses (IAVs) in the environment likely plays a role in their transmission; IAVs are able to remain infectious in aquatic habitats and may have the capacity to seed outbreaks when susceptible wild bird hosts utilize these same environments months or even seasons later. Here, we aimed to assess the persistence of low-pathogenicity IAVs from...
Authors
Rebecca L. Poulson, Andrew B. Reeves, Christina Ahlstrom, Laura Celeste Scott, Laura E. Hubbard, Alinde Fojtik, Deborah L. Carter, David E. Stallknecht, Andrew M. Ramey
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Science and Products

Filter Total Items: 13
Northern Pintail pair on water, Copper River Delta, Alaska

High Priority Species for Avian Influenza in Alaska

In early 2006, an Alaska Interagency Avian Influenza Working Group was formed to develop a ranking matrix for selecting priority species to be sampled within Alaska. Most wild bird species with populations that utilize areas of both Alaska and Asia were identified and considered in the ranking exercise. Based on scoring criteria, 28 target species were chosen for sampling. Alaska is a...
By
Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Alaska Science Center
High Priority Species for Avian Influenza in Alaska

High Priority Species for Avian Influenza in Alaska

In early 2006, an Alaska Interagency Avian Influenza Working Group was formed to develop a ranking matrix for selecting priority species to be sampled within Alaska. Most wild bird species with populations that utilize areas of both Alaska and Asia were identified and considered in the ranking exercise. Based on scoring criteria, 28 target species were chosen for sampling. Alaska is a...
Learn More
Tundra Swan swimming on a lake in northern Alaska

Bird Migration and Influenza

The movement and transmission of avian influenza viruses in wild birds may differ by the migratory nature of each host species.
By
Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Alaska Science Center, International Programs
Bird Migration and Influenza

Bird Migration and Influenza

The movement and transmission of avian influenza viruses in wild birds may differ by the migratory nature of each host species.
Learn More
John Reed (USGS scientist) holding a gull marked with a satellite transmitter at the Soldotna landfill in June 2016

Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Migratory Birds

Migratory birds, and particularly those using habitats close to human settlements, may be infected with antibiotic resistant bacteria. The USGS is working with public health professionals to understand the role of birds in the maintenance and dispersal of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Additionally, the USGS is investigating how antibiotic resistant bacteria in birds may relate to public and...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center
Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Migratory Birds

Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Migratory Birds

Migratory birds, and particularly those using habitats close to human settlements, may be infected with antibiotic resistant bacteria. The USGS is working with public health professionals to understand the role of birds in the maintenance and dispersal of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Additionally, the USGS is investigating how antibiotic resistant bacteria in birds may relate to public and...
Learn More
Scientist swabbing hunter-harvested ducks in western Alaska

Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America

The USGS has cooperated with federal, state, and tribal partners to conduct research on Avian Influenza (AI) viruses and to assist with response to outbreaks of highly pathogenic AI (HPAI) since 2006. Read ahead for information about HPAI, the occurrence of HPAI among wildlife, USGS-led research and surveillance efforts, and potentially helpful online resources.
By
Alaska Science Center
Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America

Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America

The USGS has cooperated with federal, state, and tribal partners to conduct research on Avian Influenza (AI) viruses and to assist with response to outbreaks of highly pathogenic AI (HPAI) since 2006. Read ahead for information about HPAI, the occurrence of HPAI among wildlife, USGS-led research and surveillance efforts, and potentially helpful online resources.
Learn More
White breasted bird with orange feet, black/brown back, short beak

Q&A: The Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center

The Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center provides genetic information on the health and status of biological resources for diverse local, state, and federal partners. Hypothesis-driven research projects are designed to fill data gaps and inform decisions for Department of Interior and other management agencies. The Molecular Ecology Lab research portfolio currently includes...
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory
Q&A: The Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center

Q&A: The Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center

The Molecular Ecology Lab at the USGS Alaska Science Center provides genetic information on the health and status of biological resources for diverse local, state, and federal partners. Hypothesis-driven research projects are designed to fill data gaps and inform decisions for Department of Interior and other management agencies. The Molecular Ecology Lab research portfolio currently includes...
Learn More
Herring and Glaucous gulls at the Bethel Landfill, Bethel, Alaska

Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria Acquired by Wild Birds in Urban Settings and Dispersed via Migration

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists have developed a model that demonstrates how migratory wild birds in urban areas can acquire bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, including those used in clinics, and potentially disperse these bacteria between continents via migration.
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Environmental Health Program, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center
Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria Acquired by Wild Birds in Urban Settings and Dispersed via Migration

Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria Acquired by Wild Birds in Urban Settings and Dispersed via Migration

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists have developed a model that demonstrates how migratory wild birds in urban areas can acquire bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, including those used in clinics, and potentially disperse these bacteria between continents via migration.
Learn More
Filter Total Items: 31

Code, input data, and simulated spatiotemporal distributions and energetic profiles for a model of mallard and northern pintail migration across the Northern Hemisphere Code, input data, and simulated spatiotemporal distributions and energetic profiles for a model of mallard and northern pintail migration across the Northern Hemisphere

These data and code were collected to support the development of a modeling framework that integrates local daily weather conditions and land cover with individual energetics and morphology to simulate mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and northern pintail (Anas acuta) migration across the Northern Hemisphere.The simulated birds move across a discretized landscape of 20 by 20 mile nodes...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center

Data for Detection of Giardia and Cryptosporidium Parasites in Surface Water of a Subarctic City Data for Detection of Giardia and Cryptosporidium Parasites in Surface Water of a Subarctic City

This dataset describes the number and detection of Giardia cysts and Cryptosporidium oocysts in water samples collected from creeks and lakes in Anchorage, Alaska during 2021.
By
Alaska Science Center

Data on Exposure of Wild Mammals Inhabiting Alaska to H5N1 Influenza A Viruses Data on Exposure of Wild Mammals Inhabiting Alaska to H5N1 Influenza A Viruses

This data set describes serological data collected from mammals in Alaska and seropositivity to influenza A, clade 2.3.4.4b H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), North American lineage H5 low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI), and N1 antigens.
By
Alaska Science Center

Data for Genomic Characterization of Highly Pathogenic H5 Avian Influenza Viruses from Alaska in 2022 Data for Genomic Characterization of Highly Pathogenic H5 Avian Influenza Viruses from Alaska in 2022

This data set describes genomic sequence information from 2022 used to infer spatiotemporal trends pertaining to the introductions of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza viruses into Alaska and spread among wild birds, backyard poultry, and mammals.
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory

Data for Infectivity of Wild-Bird Origin Influenza A Viruses in Minnesota Wetlands Across Seasons Data for Infectivity of Wild-Bird Origin Influenza A Viruses in Minnesota Wetlands Across Seasons

This data set represents an ecological and laboratory-based experiment to understand influenza virus viability in surface water. Data tables included in this release consist of 1) daily mean water temperature, 2) viability of viruses maintained in water, 3) influenza detection in duck samples, 4) viral titers of experimentally inoculated water samples, and 5) water chemistry.
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory

Molecular Sexing of Birds Using Quantitative PCR (qPCR) of Sex-Linked Genes and Logistic Models Molecular Sexing of Birds Using Quantitative PCR (qPCR) of Sex-Linked Genes and Logistic Models

This dataset provides cycle threshold (Ct) values achieved during qPCR for 6 sex-linked genes, and two autosomal genes, for individuals from 60 species and across 13 orders of birds.
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory
No results found.
Filter Total Items: 118

A practical decision tool for marine bird mortality assessments A practical decision tool for marine bird mortality assessments

Given the rise in anthropogenic, environmental, and disease events contributing to marine bird mortality, there is a critical need to improve the rigor of mortality assessments. Deficits in data collection and mortality estimation can hinder a manager’s ability to document event scales and inform population level impacts. Therefore, to inform decisions required during activities such as
Authors
Johanna Alexandra Harvey, Andrew M. Ramey, Stephanie Avery-Gomm, Gregory Robertson, Marc Romano, Jennifer M. Mullinax, Megan Boldenow, Philip W. Atkinson, Diann Prosser
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Alaska Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Bait trapping of waterfowl increases the environmental contamination of avian influenza virus (AIV) Bait trapping of waterfowl increases the environmental contamination of avian influenza virus (AIV)

Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) H5Nx clade 2.3.4.4b has circulated in North America since late 2021, resulting in higher rates of morbidity and mortality in wild birds than observed in this region before. The objective of this study was to determine whether baiting, which is widely conducted in Canada and the United States as part of waterfowl management practices (e.g...
Authors
Cassandra Andrew, Landon McPhee, Kevin Kuchinski, Jordan Wight, Ishraq Rahman, Sarah Mansour, Gabrielle Angelo Cortez, Marzieh Kalhor, Ethan Kenmuir, Natalie Prystajecky, Kathryn Hargan, Andrew Lang, James Leafloor, Catherine Soos, Andrew M. Ramey, Chelsea Himsworth
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory

Cooling perspectives on the risk of pathogenic viruses from thawing permafrost Cooling perspectives on the risk of pathogenic viruses from thawing permafrost

Climate change is inducing wide-scale permafrost thaw in the Arctic and subarctic, triggering concerns that long-dormant pathogens could reemerge from the thawing ground and initiate epidemics or pandemics. Viruses, as opposed to bacterial pathogens, garner particular interest because outbreaks cannot be controlled with antibiotics, though the effects can be mitigated by vaccines and...
Authors
Rachel Mackelprang, Robyn A. Barbato, Andrew M. Ramey, Ursel M. E. Schutte, Mark Waldrop
By
Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

Genomic characterization of highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza viruses from Alaska during 2022 provides evidence for genotype-specific trends of spatiotemporal and interspecies dissemination Genomic characterization of highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza viruses from Alaska during 2022 provides evidence for genotype-specific trends of spatiotemporal and interspecies dissemination

The ongoing panzootic of highly pathogenic H5 clade 2.3.4.4b avian influenza (HPAI) spread to North America in late 2021, with detections of HPAI viruses in Alaska beginning in April 2022. HPAI viruses have since spread across the state, affecting many species of wild birds as well as domestic poultry and wild mammals. To better understand the dissemination of HPAI viruses...
Authors
Christina Ahlstrom, Mia Kim Torchetti, Julianna B. Lenoch, Kimberlee Beckmen, Megan Boldenow, Evan J Buck, Bryan Daniels, Krista Dilione, Robert Gerlach, Kristina Lantz, Angela Matz, Rebecca L. Poulson, Laura Celeste Scott, Gay Sheffield, David R. Sinnett, David E. Stallknecht, Raphaela Stimmelmayr, Eric B. Taylor, Alison R. Williams, Andrew M. Ramey
By
Alaska Science Center, Molecular Ecology Laboratory

Sero-epidemiology of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza viruses among wild birds in subarctic intercontinental transition zones Sero-epidemiology of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza viruses among wild birds in subarctic intercontinental transition zones

Background: The geographic expansion and evolution of A/Goose/Guangdong/1/1996(H5N1) (Gs/GD) lineage H5Nx highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses since 1996 have raised awareness of enzootic circulation among migratory birds and the potential for intercontinental transport and spread. Recent Pacific- and Atlantic-route introductions of HPAI to North America were facilitated by...
Authors
Jonathon D. Gass, Robert J. Dusek, Nichola J. Hill, Laura Borkenhagen, Jeffrey S. Hall, Gunnar Thor Hallgrimsson, Mary Anne Bishop, Andrew M. Ramey, Timothy J. Spivey, Solvi Runar Vignisson, Sunna Bjork Ragnarsdottir, Halldor Palmar Halldorsson, Jon Einar Jonsson, Alexa D. Simulynas, Felicia B. Nutter, Wendy B. Puryear, Jonathan A. Runstadler
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, National Wildlife Health Center

Infectivity of wild-bird origin Influenza A viruses in Minnesota wetlands across seasons Infectivity of wild-bird origin Influenza A viruses in Minnesota wetlands across seasons

The environmental tenacity of influenza A viruses (IAVs) in the environment likely plays a role in their transmission; IAVs are able to remain infectious in aquatic habitats and may have the capacity to seed outbreaks when susceptible wild bird hosts utilize these same environments months or even seasons later. Here, we aimed to assess the persistence of low-pathogenicity IAVs from...
Authors
Rebecca L. Poulson, Andrew B. Reeves, Christina Ahlstrom, Laura Celeste Scott, Laura E. Hubbard, Alinde Fojtik, Deborah L. Carter, David E. Stallknecht, Andrew M. Ramey
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Alaska Science Center

*Disclaimer: Listing outside positions with professional scientific organizations on this Staff Profile are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of those professional scientific organizations or their activities by the USGS, Department of the Interior, or U.S. Government

Was this page helpful?