Tick Boot Camp Podcast
Professor Ahern was featured on the Tick Boot Camp Podcast:
Background
Professor Ahern is an Associate Professor of Microbiology at the University of Adirondack. She has spent over a decade researching the biology of the bacteria that cause Lyme disease and educating others about the disease and its prevention. Ahern’s dedication to the Lyme community is evident through her service as a:
- Member of the board of directors for the Lyme Action Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about Lyme disease
- Member of the Tick-Borne Disease Working Group, a federal advisory committee established by Congress to improve federal coordination of efforts related to tick-borne diseases
- LymeX Next Generation Diagnostics judge, which is a program that aims to accelerate the development of new diagnostic tests for Lyme and other tick-borne diseases
- Board member of Mothers Against Lyme Disease, a non-profit organization that provides support to families affected by Lyme and other tick-borne diseases.
Research
Professor Holly Ahern has extensive teaching and research experience in bacteriology and molecular biology. She’s the author of nationally published textbooks on microbiology, cell biology, and molecular biology. She’s also an expert on the scientific literature pertaining to Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections.
Lyme Education
In addition to her research, Professor Ahern is also involved in educating others about Lyme disease. She has given numerous talks and presentations on the disease and its prevention, and she has written articles for popular publications such as The Huffington Post and The Hill.
Advocacy
Professor Ahern is also a passionate advocate for Lyme disease patients. She has worked to raise awareness about the disease and the challenges that patients face in getting a proper diagnosis and treatment. She has testified before state legislatures and spoken out about the need for more research funding and better treatment options for Lyme disease. Professor Ahern was recently named Lyme Disease Citizen of the Year for her contributions to Lyme disease research and advocacy.
History with Lyme
Professor Ahern came to her Lyme expertise the hard way, as the mother of a daughter with Lyme disease. Her professional knowledge was put to the practical test of having to navigate the complex care of a Lyme patient. She understands the science and has complete empathy for the suffering that tick-borne diseases inflict on patients and families.
Looking Ahead
Professor Holly Ahern’s tireless work in Lyme disease research and advocacy is making a significant impact on our understanding of the disease and its prevention and treatment. By studying the biology of the bacteria that cause Lyme disease, identifying new potential drug targets, and raising awareness about the challenges faced by Lyme disease patients, Professor Ahern is helping to improve outcomes for those who are affected by the disease.
