Ethan Degner

Ethan Degner is an Associate Professor of Biology and Head of the Marine Biology Department at Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC), where he has been since 2019. He holds a Ph.D. in Entomology from Cornell University (2019) and a B.A. in Biology from Gustavus Adolphus College (2012). His research integrates diverse fields such as marine biology, vector-borne disease ecology, and sperm biology, with a focus on mosquitoes and their roles in disease transmission. He teaches courses including Principles of Biology, Ecology, and Invertebrate Zoology.

Key research interests include mosquito reproductive physiology, sperm biology in insects, and the ecological impacts of invasive species. Degner’s work often bridges entomology with molecular biology, leveraging cryo-electron microscopy and proteomics to study fertilization mechanisms and mosquito behavior. His recent studies explore how mating and environmental factors influence mosquito fertility and vector competence.

He has advised students on projects ranging from environmental consulting to stream ecology, emphasizing hands-on learning. Degner’s scholarly outputs span over a decade, with notable contributions to understanding Aedes aegypti’s reproductive biology and its implications for disease control. He actively engages in community activities, including pub trivia and worship at St. Marcus Lutheran Church.