Dr Paul Baker
Lecturer in Biological and Biomedical Sciences
Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences
Dr Baker studied at the University of London before migrating north to become a Research Fellow at the University of Glasgow Veterinary School. Working in the field of reproductive biology he used Stereological and Molecular techniques to investigate testicular and ovarian development, he joined GCU in 2009 as a Researcher Fellow and became a lecturer in 2017.
His current research interests include using molecular techniques to develop assays, including qPCR and Sanger sequencing to identify emerging bacterial, viral and protozoan zoonoses transmitted by ticks circulating in Scotland’s wildlife. Lyme disease is the most well known infection to be passed on to humans following the bite of the sheep/deer tick (Ixodes ricinus) in the UK, but many other pathogens can be found in these arachnids that can, as co-infections exacerbate the symptoms of this potentially debilitating condition. The majority of the ticks are removed from native mammals and pets but ticks collected from migratory birds are also investigated. Thanks to climate change, conditions in the UK are becoming suitable for colonisation by new species of tick and their associated pathogen passengers, their arrival facilitated birds and the transport of pets and farm animals.
He also enjoys promoting science to the public and works with GCU Community and Public Engagement, the Caledonian Club, The Glasgow Science Festival and the RSPB.
Dr Baker’s more recent research can be found in his research profile.