FRANCISCO LLORENTE DE GRACIA is a biologist and holds the position of Permanent Researcher at the Animal Health Research Center (INIA-CISA), CSIC. He develops his work in a High Biological Security facility suitable for in vitro and in vivo handling of infectious and exotic agents of high risk for animal and public health. He re received his PhD degree in Biology by the Complutense University of Madrid in 2000. His current work is focused, mainly, in the area of animal viral diseases and zoonoses, with great impact in animal and public health. His lines of research are aimed at improving the diagnostic techniques for animal viruses and specially arboviruses such as West Nile virus and Usutu virus. Additionally, he works at developing animal models (mammals and birds) to study the pathogenesis and animal/host interactions of flavivirus infection. He has developed diagnostic methods (both serological and molecular), which have been transferred to different diagnostic laboratories and private companies. He has participated in dissemination activities including the publication of articles in magazines, talks at high schools and participation in science dissemination program. He is member of the scientific societies SEV and ESVV (Spanish and European virology societies).