Our ultimate goal: a long-lasting knowledge-gathering and sharing network within and across communities in Alaska.

We are working with Indigenous and local community members to establish disease surveillance in multiple areas, including harvested animals, human wastewater, urban wildlife, and domestic animals. Social science methods are being used to support the co-development of a scientifically, socially, and culturally beneficial and impactful surveillance system. These collaborations will direct sampling efforts, communication of findings, and investigations and responses to spillover/spill-back events. By using both Indigenous and place-based knowledge, and biological sampling techniques, we aim to advance Indigenous Peoples’ self-determination in research, while creating mutual animal and human health benefits.