Research InterestsI am primarily interested in the evolutionary history of the 5th largest order of insects, the Hemiptera, with a specific focus on the suborder Heteroptera. My current research uses phylogenomic approaches and next-generation sequencing to generate large genomic datasets for hundreds of non-model species to resolve challenging areas in the heteropteran Tree of Life, employing integrative approaches to document the Earth's biodiversity, and investigating the evolution of morphological, behavioral, and ecological traits. Another aspect of my research is developing diagnostic resources for current and emerging pests that threaten California food and agriculture. My research interests also aim to integrate microevolutionary and macroevolutionary approaches to investigate, e.g., the evolution of coloration and insect weaponry. Further details on my current and past research can be viewed below.
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He/Him/His |
Professional Background
Senior Insect Biosystematist
2020–Present California Department of Food & Agriculture Plant Pest Diagnostics Branch Curator of Heteroptera & Thysanoptera |
Research Associate
2020–Present Department of Entomology & Nematology University of California — Davis |
Postdoctoral Associate
2016–2020 Entomology & Nematology Department University of Florida |
Ph.D. in Entomology
2010–2016 Department of Entomology University of California — Riverside |
B.Sc. in Biology
2004–2008 University of Arkansas — Little Rock |
FOLLOW ME AROUND THE WORLD
Research has given me several opportunities to engage in fieldwork abroad, visit some of the largest entomology collections in the world, and present at international conferences. Outside of the US, I have conducted fieldwork in Costa Rica, Honduras, Cameroon, Eswatini, South Africa, and South Korea.