Jennifer Pechal

Jennifer Pechal serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Entomology within Michigan State University's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Her interdisciplinary research program integrates entomology, microbiology, and computational approaches to study insect-microbe interactions during decomposition across diverse ecosystems.

Education:

• PhD, Texas A&M University (2012)
• MS, Texas A&M University (2008)
• BS, Sam Houston State University (2006)

Dr. Pechal's research focuses on decomposition ecology and the necrobiome, utilizing high-throughput "-omics" technologies and machine learning to investigate microbial community succession associated with decomposing organic matter. Her work bridges fundamental ecological understanding with applied solutions in forensic science, waste management, and sustainable protein production through insect farming. Current projects include NSF-funded research on infectious disease ecology and international collaborations in Malawi focused on insect-based feed development.

Her publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to forensic microbiology, with recent work examining postmortem microbial biomarkers, carrion decomposition dynamics, and the ecological implications of sapronotic diseases. Research outputs span high-impact journals in ecology, microbiology, and forensic science, revealing strong interdisciplinary connections between decomposition processes, microbial ecology, and practical applications.

Professional Activities:

• Principal Investigator on $2.5 million NSF grant studying infectious disease ecology
• Recipient of Michigan State University Alliance for African Partnership funding
• Regular media contributor (Science Friday, etc.) on necrobiome research

Dr. Pechal's teaching program includes graduate seminars on "Forensic Applications of the Necrobiome" and "Scientific Writing," reflecting her dual expertise in decomposition science and academic communication. Her lab maintains active collaborations with researchers at University of Dayton, University of Malawi, and Makerere University, supporting international research capacity building while advancing fundamental knowledge of insect-microbe systems.