Biography

Benjamin Roche is a distinguished research director with expertise in the intricate interplay between biodiversity and infectious diseases. He serves as the scientific advisor to the CEO of the French Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD) and is a Co-founder and Global Science Leader of PREZODE (Preventing Zoonotic Disease Emergence). Additionally, he holds the role of commissioner in the Lancet/PPATS commission dedicated to Preventing Viral Spillovers.
His research primarily revolves around bridging the realms of evolutionary ecology and public health, leveraging data analysis, mathematical modeling, and phylodynamic approaches. Dr. Roche investigates how the diversity of hosts and pathogens can influence the emergence and transmission of zoonotic diseases. He also explores integrated prevention strategies to mitigate these risks. Furthermore, his work delves into the intricate relationships between ecological and societal factors in the spread of pathogens, particularly examining the impact of human behavior. Beyond infectious disease epidemiology, he explores the effects of pathogen community structure on cancer incidence and severity. He develops theoretical models grounded in experimental data to understand the application of "adaptive therapy" in chemotherapy to delay the emergence of drug resistance.
In addition to his groundbreaking research endeavors, Dr. Roche collaborates extensively with both national and international health authorities. He plays a pivotal role in developing decision support tools, including advising governments during the COVID-19 crisis to inform public health policy. He is also actively engaged in the development and implementation of international prevention programs against potential pandemics, exemplified by his involvement in the PREZODE initiative. Driven by a commitment to fundamental research, his projects possess translational potential, offering opportunities to enhance public health strategies, particularly in resource-constrained regions.