As an entomologist, I work with all types of insects, but I am specifically focused on those in wood and wood products.
Curiosity is definitely the thing that has most helped me get where I am today. No matter how old you get there is always something out there to be curious about!
The project I am currently working on focuses on termites and termite colonies in Wisconsin. Termites live in an environment that is full of microorganisms that could be potentially harmful to the colony. I am looking at ways in which termites control these microorganisms to ensure the continued health of the termite colony.
The main piece of equipment I use is a dissecting microscope. For most insects, they are too small to watch carefully with the naked eye.
During a survey of a family of beetles in Wisconsin, I discovered a new species that I got to name after my advisor and mentor, Dr. Daniel K. Young!
Since I was a kid it had always fascinated me that there was this tiny world all around us that you could miss if you weren’t paying attention. I can’t think of anything more fun than studying insects.
