The activities of the department are focused on basic and applied researches for taxonomy, ecology, physiology, biochemistry, vector-parasite relationship and molecular biology in vector insects of diseases and other insect pests for public health importance. Furthermore, methodological researches on pest management and official bioassay service for insecticides are also included.

LABORATORY OF VECTOR TAXONOMY AND ECOLOGY

Taxonomy and ecology of medically important insects, and epidemiology of mosquito-borne diseases are the main study fields. This laboratory is the center of taxonomic studies on medically important insects in Japan and giving identification services of insect pests for public health importance.

LABORATORY OF VECTOR-BORNE DISEASE TRANSMISSION

Physiological and biochemical studies on transmission mechanisms of viral, protozoan, and bacterial pathogens by arthropod vectors. This laboratory provides information related to isolation, identification and characterization of these pathogens in arthropod vectors.

LABORATORY OF VECTOR CONTROL AND PESTICIDE SCIENCE

Studies on vector control and mechanisms of insecticide resistance, official bioassay service for insecticides and maintenance and supply of insect strains.