Ben Golas
About Ben Golas
Ben Golas is a Postdoctoral Quantitative Wildlife Disease Ecologist at the U.S. Geological Survey, with a focus on wildlife disease mortality factors. He has extensive experience in veterinary medicine and wildlife disease ecology, holding degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, Colorado State University, and Cornell University.
Work at U.S. Geological Survey
Ben Golas has been serving as a Postdoctoral Quantitative Wildlife Disease Ecologist at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) since 2021. In this role, he focuses on understanding wildlife diseases and their impacts on various populations. His research employs quantitative methods to analyze disease dynamics in wildlife, contributing to the broader field of wildlife health and conservation.
Current Role at Banfield Pet Hospital
In addition to his research position, Ben Golas works as an Associate Veterinarian at Banfield Pet Hospital in Hagerstown, Maryland. He has held this position since 2019, where he provides veterinary care and services to pets, applying his extensive knowledge in veterinary medicine and wildlife disease ecology.
Education and Expertise
Ben Golas holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Wildlife Disease Ecology from Colorado State University, which he completed in 2020. He also earned a Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris (VMD) from the University of Pennsylvania in 2013. His academic background is complemented by a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Animal Sciences from Cornell University, obtained in 2009. His education has equipped him with a strong foundation in veterinary medicine and wildlife health.
Research Focus and Methodology
Ben Golas's research primarily investigates the factors contributing to high mortality rates from diseases in certain wildlife populations. He utilizes a combination of modeling and observational experiments to inform his studies. His work is guided by the One Health concept, which highlights the interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health. His thesis project specifically examines host-environment interactions and their effects on white-nose syndrome in bats.
Previous Experience in Veterinary Medicine
Before his current roles, Ben Golas worked as an Associate Veterinarian at Cheyenne Pet Clinic from 2013 to 2015. This experience provided him with practical skills in veterinary care, further enhancing his expertise in animal health and disease management.