Speakers
Plenary Session
Dr Rebecca Webb will examine how the amphibian pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) has driven declines across immunologically naive populations and is now recognised as one of the world’s most damaging invasive species. Her keynote will focus on the development of laboratory tools that allow researchers to probe the molecular and ecological dynamics of chytrid infection, including a live-imaging model, RNA interference systems, and methods to test environmental and genetic influences on disease outcomes. This work opens up new directions for understanding host–pathogen–environment interactions and for applying microbiology to support species recovery and long-term conservation.
Dr. Rebecca Webb is a Research Fellow in Wildlife and One Health at the Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne. Her research focuses on the amphibian pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), investigating infection dynamics, host–pathogen–environment interactions, and sustainable strategies for disease mitigation in vulnerable wildlife populations. Dr. Webb has developed innovative laboratory models and genetic tools, including live-imaging infection systems and RNA interference technologies, to study the mechanisms of chytrid infection and host responses. Her work aims to advance understanding of chytridiomycosis and support practical interventions for species recovery.
Collaborating across veterinary sciences, microbiology, and ecological health fields, Dr. Webb contributes to integrated approaches for protecting biodiversity under emerging disease pressures. Her research exemplifies the application of microbiology to real-world conservation challenges.