Holly L. Lutz, PhD
Dr. Holly Lutz is associate curator of mammals at the Museum. She is a biologist and genomic researcher specializing in evolutionary biology, microbiology, and disease ecology. Her work primarily focuses on studying the microbiomes, parasites, and pathogens of wild animals, particularly bats and rodents, to better understand their role in ecosystems and their potential impact on human health. By analyzing the genetic material of these organisms, she helps uncover how diseases emerge, evolve, and spread between species. She has conducted extensive fieldwork in Africa, collecting samples from diverse wildlife populations to study their microbiomes and pathogens, as well as the evolution of vertebrate intestinal systems in relationship with symbionts. Her research is crucial for identifying zoonotic diseases—those that can jump from animals to humans—such as viruses and bacteria that could lead to future pandemics. By sequencing the genomes of microbes found in animals, she aims to map out complex host-pathogen relationships and provide insights into biodiversity and disease evolution. Beyond her field research, Lutz collaborates with natural history institutions and academic centers worldwide to integrate genomic data into conservation and public health efforts. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining genetics, ecology, and infectious disease research, contributes to a broader understanding of global health challenges and the intricate connections between wildlife and human well-being.
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