Nigel Andrew

Nigel Andrew is a Professor and Chair of Discipline (Science) at Southern Cross University's Faculty of Science and Engineering. He leads the Entomology Lab at SCU in Northern Rivers, NSW, Australia, where his research focuses on insect responses to environmental extremes and climate change. His work spans multiple critical areas including dung beetle ecology, thermal biology, and integrated pest management systems.

Andrew's research interests encompass entomology, climate change impacts and adaptation, dung beetles, thermal biology, and integrated pest management. His laboratory investigates biodiversity along environmental gradients and insect responses to extreme events, with particular emphasis on how climate change affects insect ecology, physiology, and behavior. Current research projects include evaluating dung beetles' role in nutrient cycling, developing strategies for Red Imported Fire Ant management, creating Integrated Pest Management approaches for macadamia orchards, studying pasture mealybug impacts, and assessing black soldier fly applications for feed and waste reduction.

His recent publications reveal strong trends in dung beetle ecology, thermal physiology, and climate change impacts on insects. The research spans from fundamental ecological studies to applied pest management solutions, with significant focus on Australian ecosystems and agricultural challenges. His work increasingly incorporates molecular techniques like airborne DNA analysis alongside traditional ecological methods.

• Ian Mackerras Medal (Excellence in entomology) from Australian Entomological Society, 2024
• Inspiring Researcher Award from Southern Cross University, 2024
• ARC College of Experts member since 2023
• Members' Service Prize from Ecological Society of Australia, 2019
• Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society, 2013

As Editor-in-Chief of Austral Ecology, Chair of the Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment, and Vice-President of the Entomological Society of NSW, Andrew plays significant roles in the broader scientific community. His lab currently includes researchers like Risa (working on Black Soldier Fly research) and Ed (focusing on dung beetles), indicating active mentorship of the next generation of entomologists. His research is supported through various grants and collaborations, including his 2020 Fulbright Senior Scholar award.

The Entomology Lab at SCU, which Andrew leads, conducts interdisciplinary research bridging fundamental insect ecology with practical applications for agriculture and environmental management. The lab's work on thermal physiology, dung beetles, fire ants, and black soldier flies demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing real-world challenges through rigorous scientific investigation.