Rafael Ruiz De Castañeda

Dr. Rafael Ruiz de Castañeda is a researcher and lecturer at the Institute of Global Health within the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Geneva. He co-leads the One Health Unit, focusing on the intersection of wild animal ecology and veterinary microbiology. His research primarily investigates zoonotic pathogens and their implications for population health and conservation, with a particular emphasis on avian species. Dr. Ruiz de Castañeda applies a One Health/Eco-Health approach to address global health challenges, including emerging infectious diseases and biodiversity conservation. His current projects include studying the impact of snakebites in rural communities in Africa and Asia, as well as exploring local food markets' roles in health promotion and disease emergence. He is also involved in developing MOOCs in Global Health and applying innovative methods from Citizen Science to public health questions.