I conduct research on the ecology and chemical ecology of pests affecting major crops. I am strongly motivated to learn about pest ecology to enable us to implement the most environmentally benign, effective, and sustainable pest management practices. The work I engage in combines field surveys, experiments, and laboratory studies to understand insect-plant-pathogen-natural enemy interactions. Implementation of discovery must be done in the context of the socio-economic fabric of agricultural production. My research therefore also includes interdisciplinary efforts to enhance communication necessary for the sustainability of agricultural systems.
