What makes viruses tick?
Understanding ticks, their diseases, and how to stay safe outdoors
Project Overview:
As tick bites increase across Scotland due to changes in public behaviour post-COVID and warmer winters linked to climate change, so too does the risk of tick-borne disease. The ‘What Makes Viruses Tick?’ project set out to raise awareness of this emerging public health issue through citizen science, creative engagement, and accessible resources. From Lyme disease to the newly emerging Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), the project empowered communities to understand the risks and respond with confidence.
The team collaborated with outdoor organisations, health professionals, and media platforms to share stories, gather data, and offer guidance—reaching over 2,000 people directly and many more through viral online content. Resources were also created in Gaelic and distributed widely via national signage campaigns and education networks.
Team:
- Project Lead: Dr Ben Brennan (University of Glasgow)
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Sam Langford – Project Manager
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Lois Mason – Communications Lead (2022–2024)
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Alex Wilson – PhD researcher and creator of viral TickTok videos
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Roman Biek – Co-applicant and field engagement lead
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In collaboration with: The Conservation Volunteers, Lyme Resource Centre, NHS Highland, Orkney International Science Festival, Mugdock Country Park, and others.
Goals & Activities
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Co-develop a citizen science tick map with The Conservation Volunteers.
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Engage the public through in-person events, school talks, and outreach at festivals.
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Develop Gaelic-language and child-friendly educational resources.
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Partner with health professionals to connect science with lived experience.
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Raise national awareness via viral videos, signage, and policy engagement.1
Project Outputs
Tick Awareness Map & Citizen Science Portal
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Over 1,000 tick sightings submitted via TCV platform, with real-world land management impact.
Educational Content & Gaelic Resources
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Resources for schools, families, and the public—available in Gaelic and English, including animation videos, zines, and classroom materials.
National Signage Campaign
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1,000+ signs installed across Scotland linking to tick safety resources—thanks to collaboration with the Lyme Resource Centre.
