Dr. Debra Miller's Research Program

Dr. Miller’s research focuses on wildlife diseases and how their emergence and prevalence
are affected by human activity.  The scope of her studies includes freshwater, marine and terrestrial
species.  Histological examination, electron microscopic examination, molecular testing, virus
isolation, bacterial culture, hematological and biochemical analysis, and toxicological analysis
are just some of the tools used in wildlife disease investigation and health assessment.  When
we understand the relationship between human activities and wildlife health we can optimize
our management strategies for wildlife populations.  Additionally, understanding the role that
wildlife might play in the epidemiology of zoonotic pathogens or pathogens affecting domestic
species helps us safeguard humans, livestock and pets.  Ultimately, by understanding the wildlife,
livestock, human interface we are better equipped to ensure healthy populations of all species.

Current projects include:
- Anthropogenic stressors and pathological changes in amphibians.
- Investigating the amphibian immune system
- Ranavirus and amphibian survival
- Amphibians as hosts for zoonotic pathogens
- Factors affecting Leatherback hatchling survival.
- Reproductive parameters in male Cetacea
- Toxicological factors affecting marine mammals and Arctic mammals
- Health assessment of Fallow deer on Little Saint Simon’s Island, Wild turkeys
   in South Georgia,and Coyotes from South Carolina