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Global Outbreak Expert Joins CERI the gem - Feb 2026
CERI Welcomes Prof Carla Mavian to lead One Health vision.
text: Katrine Anker-Nilssen
photos: Supplied
The Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) has welcomed Prof Carla Mavian, an infectious disease genomicist whose work spans evolutionary biology, phylodynamic,s and real-time outbreak response. Her appointment marks a significant step in embedding a comprehensive One Health framework within CERI’s continental pathogen surveillance efforts.
For Carla, the alignment is clear. “CERI is uniquely positioned to lead continent-wide pathogen intelligence, and its highly collaborative environment is exactly what One Health research requires – bringing together genomics, epidemiology, social science and policy under one roof,” she says. “I’m excited to integrate wildlife, livestock, human, and environmental data into one coherent genomic surveillance framework, and to help build a One Health programme that translates genomics into actionable insights for communities, policymakers, and animal health systems across Africa.”
An Evolutionary Foundation
Carla’s scientific trajectory began with a deep interest in how pathogens evolve and move across species. “I have always been interested in infectious diseases through the lens of evolutionary biology – understanding how pathogens move, adapt and emerge across species.”
Her doctoral research on poxviruses circulating across Europe revealed the transnational nature of pathogen spread. Although she began her training in Italy, she completed her PhD in Spain, studying viral transmission within a highly interconnected region. “That experience shaped my view of pathogen evolution as a dynamic, transnational process and reinforced the need for coordinated surveillance systems grounded in evolutionary genomics.”
Postdoctoral work on cholera and arboviruses expanded this perspective, highlighting the interdependence of human, animal and environmental systems – a natural progression into One Health science.
Experience at the Interface of Science and Response
At the University of Florida and the Emerging Pathogens Institute, Mavian worked at the convergence of genomics, modelling, and outbreak response. The COVID-19 pandemic was a defining moment. “It highlighted both the power and the limitations of genomic surveillance in real time.”
Collaborating with public health agencies, veterinarians, and international partners sharpened her understanding of how evidence translates into action. “Data are only impactful when they are timely, properly contextualised and translated into decisions that matter on the ground.”
She also saw first-hand how research intersects with governance. “Scientific evidence is intertwined with political realities and policy processes. Clear, strategic communication is essential if genomic insights are to inform responsible decision-making.”
More recently, work during avian influenza outbreaks reinforced the importance of cross-sector coordination in epidemic preparedness.
Advancing Predictive Approaches
Carla is currently most engaged by efforts to link genomic data with environmental and ecological drivers of disease transmission. “Integrating phylodynamics with climate data, mobility patterns, and wildlife ecology – alongside AI-driven predictive models – opens the door to predictive, rather than reactive, surveillance.”
Such tools can guide vaccine strategy and public health planning for diseases including cholera, Foot-and-Mouth Disease, Rift Valley fever and Lassa fever, offering earlier and more targeted intervention strategies.
From her global experience, Carla draws a key lesson: “Genomic capacity alone is not enough – trust, stakeholder engagement, and local ownership are just as critical.”
She emphasises that surveillance systems must be codesigned with communities and policymakers to ensure equitable implementation and long-term sustainability. Among the most urgent priorities, she identifies the need to bridge animal and human health surveillance – particularly where wildlife–livestock interfaces are intensifying due to climate and land-use change. She is equally committed to strengthening equitable genomic leadership across Africa. “African institutions must lead the science on pathogens affecting their communities.”
At CERI, she aims to establish a multidisciplinary team capable of launching integrated surveillance and vaccination initiatives for high-impact diseases such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease, cholera, and Q fever, addressing long-standing gaps in systematic monitoring.
A Context-Sensitive Approach
Working across different countries and research systems has shaped her approach to epidemic science. “Each system has different constraints and governance structures. Effective response requires listening and designing solutions that fit local realities rather than imposing external models.”
She acknowledges the broader structural forces influencing disease emergence. “Profound social and climate disparities – shaped in part by historical and neocolonial structures – continue to drive infectious disease dynamics. Addressing epidemics requires scientific rigor alongside a commitment to locally led, sustainable solutions.”
Looking ahead, Carla sees strong potential for enhanced One Health cooperation across Africa. “There is extraordinary scientific talent and growing genomic infrastructure across the continent. The opportunity lies in linking centres of excellence, harmonising data systems, investing in training, and building transdisciplinary platforms that connect veterinarians, clinicians, ecologists and social scientists.”
Outside of research, she finds balance through travel, time in nature, and moments with friends and family.
“Moving between cultures and landscapes constantly renews my sense of purpose and perspective.”
With Prof Carla Mavian joining its team, CERI expands its capacity to integrate evolutionary genomics, ecological insight, and policy engagement – strengthening a One Health approach designed to anticipate and manage emerging health threats across Africa.
