Ekta Patel is a scientist at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). Her research centers on the livestock–wildlife interface as an important ecosystem for understanding and managing disease risks affecting both human and animal health. By examining disease and antimicrobial resistance at animal–environmental interfaces, her work strengthens global health security through improved surveillance, preparedness, and response.
Her research includes analyses of the wild meat value chain and environmental surveillance systems, key for anticipating zoonotic spillover and mitigating biosecurity threats. These efforts address immediate health risks while promoting sustainable ecosystem management for long-term resilience.
Holding a PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology with a background in Microbiology, she has contributed to antimicrobial resistance research and East Coast fever solutions in Kenya. She has also advanced clean water initiatives with Aquaya Inc. and explored cellular systems with Isolagen Inc. Across these roles, her focus has remained on infectious diseases, surveillance innovation, and early warning systems which contribute towards global preparedness against emerging health threats.
