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Research Focus: An Integrated Platform for Tick and Tick-Borne Disease Control Our research is structured around five strategic pillars, each contributing to a cohesive platform aimed at controlling ticks and tick-borne diseases: 1. Tick Vaccine Development: We have evaluated a broad range of antigens for their potential in tick vaccines. Our leading antigen(s) have demonstrated 80–86% reduction in engorged ticks, and also affect oviposition and viability of offspring. This significant impact highlights their promise in large-scale tick control strategies. 2. Immune Response Characterization: We investigate the immune responses triggered during tick feeding and following vaccination with protective antigen-adjuvant combinations. Techniques such as flow cytometry, cytokine analyses, and RNA sequencing are employed to uncover correlates of protection and inform the rational design and formulation of effective vaccines. 3. Vaccine Efficacy under Co-Infection Conditions: Given the complexity of natural infestations, where hosts are frequently co-infected with ticks and tick-borne pathogens, we assess immune responses under co-infection scenarios using a murine model. Our primary focus is on Babesia and Anaplasma spp., the two most critical diseases transmitted by Rhipicephalus ticks. This work ensures that vaccine efficacy translates to real-world field conditions. 4. Phylogeography and Genetic Markers: We investigate genetic markers of cattle ticks to map their phylogeographical distribution. This research aids in understanding tick population dynamics, the development of protective vaccines for Africa, and the spread of resistance traits. 5. Acaricide Resistance Mechanisms: To monitor acaricide resistance and contribute to the next generation of acaricides, we explore the modes of action underlying resistance mechanisms. Our findings aim to inform the development of rapid diagnostics, enhancing early detection and management of resistance via the rational design of novel acaricides using structural biology, Global Collaboration and Leadership: Our multidisciplinary team collaborates with leading experts from the USA, Spain, Australia, France, Czech Republic, The Netherlands, Brazil, Portugal, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Prof. Maritz-Olivier is a co-initiator of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Cattle Tick Vaccine (CatVac) Project and a former President of the International Society of Tropical Veterinary Medicine. She is also an active member of the International Veterinary Vaccine Network, contributing significantly to global veterinary vaccine research.