MALDI-TOF MS (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry) is a widely used method developed for the identification of large biomolecules, such as proteins.  It is now commonly used for the identification of bacteria from environmental or clinical samples. In this talk, I will explain how we adapted this tool to identify vectors, simultaneously detect their associated pathogens, and more.

Maureen Laroche, MSc, PhD, FRES, is a Medical Entomologist and Clinical Bacteriologist from Martinique (Caribbean). She is currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch, where she leads research focused on the ecology and virulence of vector-borne bacteria, especially in neglected communities. Her research involves large One Health studies at the intersection of medical entomology, clinical bacteriology, and field epidemiology.