Oxitec People: Mazigh Fares, Team Lead, Scotland

Oxitec People: Mazigh Fares, Team Lead, Scotland

Can you tell us about your role at Oxitec and what it entails?

I lead and support the R&D team developing a Friendly™ solution for the Asian blue tick, a widespread invasive tick species which transmits deadly livestock diseases. As my team is based in Edinburgh, quite remote from Oxitec headquarters near Oxford, I also manage the facility, reach out to suppliers, and ensure health and safety is maintained.

What motivated you to join Oxitec’s mission?

I trained as virologist, with a focus on viruses transmitted by ticks. I am interested in how to control the spread of diseases by limiting their transmission, which led me to vector control research and – from there - joining Oxitec.

What do you enjoy about your role?

Cattle ticks and their associated pathogens ravage livestock and harm people who rely on farming for their livelihood. In this role, what keeps me going is that my daily efforts are working towards helping individuals all over the world achieve food and financial security.

What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue your area of work?

The key to any career in science is being curious. There are many aspects to the work, and being interested in learning and understanding new concepts is the best mindset for a new starter in a scientific career.