Dr Rachel Paterson is a research scientist in the Department of Salmonid Fishes, Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA), Trondheim. Rachel leads the Biodiversa+ IMPACT project, which aims to integrate parasites into aquatic biodiversity monitoring across Europe. Rachel’s research interests include the long-term recovery of parasite communities, the effects of multiple stressors on host-parasite dynamics, and the role of parasites in salmonid migration dynamics.
Scientist: Rachel Paterson
Parasites: often overlooked but important for biomedical research
European biomedical researchers show a rising interest towards parasites, often regarded as natural oddities in the past but now recognised as vital parts of natural ecosystems, in addition to having a sizable impact on human health worldwide. Parasites are an incredibly diverse and broad group of organisms, comprising plants, animals and microscopic beings alike. Their ...
A scientist’s opinion: interview with Dr Rachel Paterson on the importance of parasite research
Dr Rachel Paterson works at the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, where she studies host-parasite interactions in wildlife, tackling crucial aspects related to conservation and ecosystem functioning. Since 2024, she has led the IMPACT project. The main goal of this project -funded by Biodiversa+ (European Biodiversity Partnership), the European Commission, and national funding organisations across ...