The research has extraordinary elements of human / insect interaction, and collection of volatile semiochemicals from human beings. The project was developed through PESTIVAL, representing an opportunity to work towards the public engagement arena. The proposal had to be relevant for the researchers and challenge public perception on malaria research.
The initial concept compared the level of attractiveness of 2 individuals by creating a live competition. People place their hands inside specific cones that come out of the spherical body of the object. These are protected with a double layer mesh to avoid mosquitoes to escape from the sphere and bite individuals. The mosquitoes are given the choice to select the most attractive scent by flying towards one individual.
Rothamsted Research: Dr. James Logan and James Cook
Designer: Andrew Forkes
Electronic Engineer: Chris Merridan