Find Academic Supervisors

• Genetic variation in farm animals
• Nutrient utilization (phosphorus, calcium)
• Feed efficiency
• +7 more

Dr. rer. nat. Henry Reyer is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN) since 2014, focusing on Physiological Genomics of farm animals. His research bridges genetic variation with performance, immunity, and nutrient utilization in pigs, poultry, and cattle. PhD in Biology from University of Rostock (2014) Diploma in Biology from University of Rostock (2009) 2003-2009: Undergraduate studies in Biology at University of Rostock Research spans: Epigenetic regulation of calcium/phosphorus metabolism in pigs Transcriptomic responses to nutrient deficiencies in poultry Genetic basis of feed efficiency across species Host-microbiota interactions in gut health and metabolism Stress parameters in modern vs traditional pig breeds Multi-tissue gene expression in dairy cattle nitrogen utilization Over 50 publications since 2016, with 2024-2025 studies covering black soldier fly microbiomes , jejunal epigenetics , and vitamin D metabolism . Collaborative work with Klaus Wimmers and Michael Oster includes projects on agricultural sustainability and nutrient recycling . Current affiliations include: Researcher at FBN's Physiological Genomics working group Contributor to Leibniz ScienceCampus 'Animal Replacement' Participant in Open Science initiatives at FBN

Andrew SuarezView profile

Professor

• Ant ecology and behavior
• Biological invasions
• Entomology
• +3 more

Andrew V. Suarez is a Professor of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior, and Entomology at the University of Illinois. He serves as Acting Head of both Entomology and Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior departments. His roles also include affiliations with the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, and Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies. Suarez holds the Jeffrey S. Elowe Professorship. His research focuses on ant ecology and behavior, particularly biological invasions, and spans topics such as ant invasion dynamics, community ecology, and bioinspired design. He has received numerous awards, including the AAAS Fellowship (2019), LAS Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching (2017), and the University of Illinois Campus Award for Excellence in Teaching (2017). His work integrates field studies, museum data analysis, and experimental approaches to understand ecological and evolutionary processes. Education: B.S. in Ecology, Ethology, and Evolution (University of Illinois), M.S. in Biology (University of Illinois), Ph.D. in Biology (University of California, San Diego). His research has led to over 140 publications, with recent focus on Argentine ants, invasive species impacts, and museum-based biodiversity studies. His affiliations highlight interdisciplinary collaboration across biology, genomics, and Latin American studies. Scientific contributions include groundbreaking work on ant behavior, invasion biology, and the ecological consequences of introduced species. His articles analyze ant foraging strategies, nest architecture, and the role of ants in ecosystem processes. Suarez’s work is frequently cited in entomology and ecology journals, with notable contributions to understanding biological invasions’ global impacts. He actively engages in education, leading initiatives in bioinspired design and undergraduate teaching. His lab and collaborations emphasize both foundational research and applied solutions to ecological challenges.

• Medical Entomology
• Vector Biology
• Mosquito Ecology
• +2 more

Millon Blackshear is an Associate Medical Entomology Scientist at the Illinois Natural History Survey, affiliated with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. His work bridges medical entomology, vector biology, and molecular oncology, focusing on mosquito ecology and disease transmission mechanisms. Collaborations with institutions in Central Kenya Contributions to understanding mosquito population dynamics and alphavirus interactions Research interests span mosquito community ecology , gene expression in larval environments , and apoptosis in brain cancer cells . Key projects include analyzing landscape impacts on Culicidae populations and temperature-dependent gene regulation in Aedes aegypti. His publications highlight collaborations with Drs. Trivellone, Cao, Kim, Stone, and Muturi. Datasets from his work include genetic alignments of Culex pipiens populations in Illinois. Research outputs emphasize public health implications of mosquito ecology and molecular oncology applications.

Benjamin ParkerView profile

Assistant Professor

• Evolutionary Biology
• Microbiology
• Immunology
• +4 more

Benjamin Parker is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), part of the College of Arts & Sciences. His research focuses on the evolution and ecology of animal-microbe interactions, particularly using pea aphids as a model system. The Parker Lab investigates symbiont coevolution, viral symbionts, immune system mechanisms, and pest biocontrol strategies through genomic, genetic, and experimental approaches. The lab is supported by NIH/NIGMS and NSF grants, including a NIH R35 MIRA award for host-symbiont coevolution studies. Research interests include host-symbiont coevolution, heritable viruses, pathogen evolution, and molecular pest control. Techniques employed include genomic sequencing, microbiological analysis, and controlled experiments with insect models. Recent work explores how symbionts modulate host immunity and phenotypes, such as wing development, while addressing applied questions in biocontrol. Key collaborations and funding include the NIH/NIGMS MIRA Grant (2021) and NSF Postdoctoral Fellowships. The lab has moved to UNC in 2025 and includes PhD candidates (e.g., Keertana Tallapragada), postdocs (e.g., Paula Rozo-Lopez), and undergraduate researchers. Notable lab milestones include publishing genomic analyses of aphids and fireflies, as well as studies on symbiont-driven phenotypic changes. Awards and recognition include Paula Rozo-Lopez’s NSF Postdoc Fellowship and Meaghan Adler’s DoD SMART Fellowship. The lab maintains an active presence in conferences like the Animal-Microbe Symbiosis Gordon Conference and regularly publishes in journals like *Applied and Environmental Microbiology* and *BMC Genomics*.

• Entomology
• Apiculture
• Honey Bee Behavior
• +4 more

Zachary Huang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology at Michigan State University (MSU), part of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. His work focuses on honey bee behavior and physiology, with a strong emphasis on addressing challenges like parasitic mites (Varroa destructor), pathogens (Nosema), pesticide impacts, and environmental stressors. He holds a PhD from the University of Guelph (1988) and a BS from Hunan Agricultural University (1982). Research Interests: Huang’s lab explores how parasites, pathogens, and environmental factors stress honey bees. Key contributions include the social inhibition model explaining nurse-to-forager transitions, the non-chemical Varroa control tool 'mitzapper,' and the extension-focused website Cyberbee.net . His work on Varroa mite host preferences and Nosema infection dynamics has advanced colony management practices. He also investigates immune priming strategies to protect bees against pathogens. Professional Experience: Huang has been at MSU since 2004, progressing from Assistant Professor (1998–2004) to his current role. Earlier, he held postdoctoral positions at UIUC and the University of Missouri-Columbia. His extension program bridges research and beekeeper needs, providing updates on varroa biology, pesticide effects, and transportation impacts. Awards: In 2008, he received the J.I. Hambleton Award for Outstanding Research from the Eastern Apicultural Society, joining luminaries like Gene Robinson and Thomas Seeley. Labs & Collaborations: The Huang Laboratory studies honey bee health and behavior. Notable collaborations include work on microRNA regulation of foraging behavior and epigenetic changes in olfactory learning. He also contributes to initiatives like the 2024 American Bee Research Conference proceedings.

• Insect-Microbe Interactions
• Decomposition Ecology
• Forensic Microbiology
• +4 more

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.

• Host-Microbe Interactions
• Microbiome Modulation
• Insect Behavior
• +3 more

Dr. Adam CN Wong is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Entomology and Nematology at the University of Florida. His research focuses on host-microbe interactions, particularly how microbiomes influence insect behavior, physiology, and pathogenesis. He integrates multi-omics and molecular genetic approaches to study systems like Drosophila melanogaster and non-model insects such as chironomids and D. suzukii . Research Themes: Microbiome modulation of host behavior and nutritional preferences Sex-specific microbiome effects on foraging and locomotion Microbiome roles in invasive pest colonization and agricultural management Vibrio-chironomid symbiosis and pathogenesis mechanisms His lab explores long-term impacts of early microbiome perturbations and collaborates with USDA ARS to develop microbiome-based pest control strategies. Key tools include axenic/gnotobiotic insect models and omics technologies. Recent work highlights microbiome-driven insecticide resistance, microbial metabolites influencing behavior, and semiochemical applications for sustainable pest control.

Whitney StoppelView profile

Assistant Professor

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Tissue Regeneration
• Biomedical Engineering
• +3 more

Whitney Stoppel, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Florida. Her research focuses on biomaterial design for directed tissue regeneration, with applications in skeletal muscle and liver tissues. She leads the Stoppel Lab, which emphasizes iterative optimization of biomaterial formulations through mechanical, degradation, and in vivo performance analyses. Education: Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering (2014, University of Massachusetts Amherst); BS in Chemical and Biological Engineering (2008, Tulane University) Her work explores silk fibroin-based materials and their roles in drug delivery, immune system interactions, and clinical translation. Key research themes include silk fibroin particle-laden sponges for controlled release, structure-function relationships in Plodia interpunctella silk, and engineering long-term tissue platforms for disease modeling. Recent publications highlight advancements in silk fibroin scaffolds, CRISPR-driven biomaterial optimization, and 3D bioprinting techniques. Her lab collaborates across disciplines to address challenges in regenerative medicine and biomanufacturing. No scientific awards are explicitly listed in the provided materials. Advising and grant activities are not detailed here, but her research portfolio reflects active engagement in biomaterials innovation. The Stoppel Lab is part of the College of Engineering, leveraging interdisciplinary approaches to develop clinically relevant biomaterial solutions.

Julia PawłowskaView profile

Professor

• Fungal Interactions
• Evolutionary Biology
• Mucoromycota Ecology
• +4 more

Dr. Julia Pawłowska is a Professor and Deputy Head of the Institute of Evolutionary Biology at the University of Warsaw. Her research focuses on fungal interactions, evolution and ecology of Mucoromycota, fungal endophytes of early land plants, and fungal taxonomy. She leads the Mycology research group and contributes to projects like the NCN WEAVE-UNISONO Functional Diversity in Alpine Ecosystems and the EU-funded Pathfood initiative. Her work spans biodiversity genomics, fungal microbiomes, and biocontrol applications in agriculture. She has received prestigious awards, including the IMA Elias Magnus Fries Medal (2024) and multiple Rector’s Awards for research and didactic achievements. Key projects include monitoring fungal biodiversity (FunDive), improving resilience to plant diseases via PestSpace, and developing sustainable food chains through Pathfood. She chairs the Polish Mycological Society (2020–2024) and collaborates internationally on fungal classification frameworks. Her research integrates field studies, genomic analysis, and ecological modeling to address biodiversity conservation and microbial symbiosis dynamics. Grants include NCN WEAVE-UNISONO (2024), BiodivMon (2023), and Visegrad funding for cryptic fungi education. She publishes extensively in journals like *Fungal Diversity* and *Nature Communications*, emphasizing fungal systematics and environmental applications.

Julia P MyattView profile

Professor

• Sustainability Education
• Behavioral Ecology
• Animal Behavior
• +4 more

Professor Julia P Myatt is a Professor in Collaborative Education and Academic Director of Sustainability Education at the University of Birmingham's School of Biosciences. She leads the integration of sustainability and climate awareness into the university's teaching strategy and is part of the Birmingham Institute for Sustainability and Climate Action (BISCA). Her research merges behavioral ecology and morphology, focusing on animal adaptation to environmental changes and captive ape welfare. She also coordinates interdisciplinary education programs and has held roles such as Head of Education in the School of Biosciences (2022-2023) and Acting Dean of Liberal Arts and Natural Sciences (2018-2019). Education: BSc (hons) and PhD from the University of Birmingham. Career highlights include postdoctoral research on collaborative hunting in African wild dogs (2012) and studies on orangutan locomotion (2010-2013). She teaches modules like 'Animal Biology: Principles and Mechanisms', emphasizing climate crisis impacts on ecosystems. Her research also explores effective interdisciplinary teaching methods and captive ape behavior through projects like the Enclosure Design Tool. Research Interests: Behavioral ecology, animal adaptation to global environmental change, interdisciplinary education frameworks, and conservation biology. Her work bridges ecology, morphology, and education, aiming to foster collaborative skills for addressing global challenges. She is the Education Secretary for the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB) and has extensive STEM outreach experience. Grants and Collaborations: Funded by EPSRC (2012) and BBSRC (2006-2010). Collaborated with institutions like the Royal Veterinary College and UCL School of Computer Science. Involved in fieldwork with NGOs in Indonesia and Botswana, informing her research on ecosystem challenges. Labs/Teams: Affiliated with BISCA and the School's research groups on sustainability education and animal behavior. Her interdisciplinary approach shapes both research and pedagogical strategies.

Ivo FeussnerView profile

Professor

• Plant Biochemistry
• Lipid Metabolism
• Oxylipin Signaling
• +5 more

Prof. Dr. Ivo Feussner is a Professor of Biochemistry at the Department of Plant Biochemistry, Georg August University, Göttingen. He leads the Plant Biochemistry research group at the Albrecht von Haller Institute, focusing on lipid metabolism in plants, algae, mosses, and fungi. His academic journey includes a Diploma (1990) and PhD (1993) from Philipps University, Marburg, followed by habilitation (2000) and leadership of independent research groups in Halle/Saale and Gatersleben before assuming his current position in 2002. Research Interests: Feussner's work centers on lipid biosynthesis and signaling pathways, particularly oxylipin metabolism, sphingolipid function, and structural lipid networks. Techniques used include metabolomics, molecular genetics, and biochemical analyses. Key projects involve plant defense mechanisms during stress, seed oil content optimization in crops, and insect-plant communication via chemical signals. Scientific Recognition: Honors include the Ernst Schering Habilitation Prize (2001), Terry-Galliard Medal (2012), and Fellowships at the Saxonian and Göttingen Academies of Sciences. His lab is internationally recognized for lipidomics innovations and contributions to plant stress biology. Professional Contributions: Feussner collaborates with global institutions, supervises interdisciplinary training programs (e.g., IMPRS GoteNeuro), and leads projects on drought-tolerant poplar trees and lipid-based industrial applications. His lab's address and contact details are available at www.plant-biochem.uni-goettingen.de .

• Arbovirology
• Vector Ecology
• Mosquito Surveillance
• +3 more

Dr. Andrew Van Den Hurk serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor at the School of the Environment, University of Queensland, with research centered on arbovirology and mosquito vector ecology. His work spans over 15 years of continuous publication in high-impact journals, focusing on the transmission dynamics of flaviviruses and other arboviruses in the Australian context. His research interests include Arbovirology , Vector Ecology , Mosquito Surveillance , Flavivirus Transmission , and Insect-Specific Viruses . His experimental work has significantly advanced understanding of how viruses like Japanese encephalitis, West Nile, and dengue interact with mosquito vectors in Australasia, particularly through studies on vector competence, viral evolution, and surveillance methodologies. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a consistent focus on Australian arbovirus ecology, with significant contributions to understanding invasive mosquito species (notably Aedes albopictus ), viral emergence patterns, and the discovery of novel insect-specific viruses that modulate pathogen transmission. His work frequently employs molecular techniques, field surveillance, and phylogenetic analysis to address public health threats. Dr. Van Den Hurk has collaborated extensively with leading Australian research groups, including those at James Cook University and Queensland Health. His collaborative network includes prominent researchers such as Scott Ritchie, Roy Hall, and Cassie Jansen, with whom he has co-authored numerous high-impact publications. His research has been supported through projects monitoring Japanese encephalitis incursion risks in the Torres Strait and developing rapid surveillance systems for invasive vectors. He leads significant laboratory and field operations including the Rapid Surveillance for Vector Presence (RSVP) system and contributes to the Winter Research Program at UQ. His work bridges fundamental virology with practical public health applications, particularly in vector control and outbreak prevention.

• Medical Entomology
• Vector-Borne Diseases
• Insecticide Resistance
• +4 more

Dr. Greg Devine is an Honorary Associate Professor at the University of Queensland's School of the Environment. His work focuses on medical entomology, vector-borne diseases, and public health interventions. Specializing in mosquito biology and vector control, he investigates insecticide resistance, disease transmission dynamics, and the impact of climate change on vector populations. Research interests include understanding mechanisms of insecticide resistance in mosquitoes, developing novel control strategies (e.g., Wolbachia-based approaches), and modeling the spread of arboviruses such as dengue and chikungunya. His studies often integrate fieldwork, genomics, and ecological modeling to address global health challenges. Recent publications highlight trends in mosquito vector identification, climate-driven disease risks, and vaccine transmission dynamics. Dr. Devine collaborates internationally on projects ranging from field trials of novel larvicides to genomic surveillance of arboviruses. His work emphasizes practical solutions for disease prevention in tropical and sub-tropical regions. While no awards or grants are explicitly listed, his extensive publication record reflects significant contributions to vector control science. Ongoing research includes investigations into Ross River virus exposure pathways and the ecological impacts of coastal mosquito management programs.

Florence PojerView profile

Research Professor

• Integrative Structural Biology
• Protein Sciences
• Macromolecular Production
• +2 more

Florence Pojer heads the Protein Production and Structure Platform (PTPSP) at EPFL's School of Life Sciences. Her expertise spans integrative structural biology techniques including X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, SPR and biophysical characterization. The PTPSP core facility supports macromolecule production and structural analysis across bacterial, insect and mammalian expression systems. Research applications include antibody engineering, membrane protein characterization, and therapeutic development against targets like SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins. Recent publications demonstrate innovations in antibody-peptide conjugates for oncology, artificial metalloenzymes, and MHC-II epitope prediction algorithms. Educational roles include protein sciences instruction and oversight of doctoral training programs.

Shiu-Wan ChanView profile

Lecturer

• Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Research
• Virus-Host Interactions
• Stress Responses in Viral Infections
• +3 more

Dr. Shiu-Wan Chan is a Lecturer in Molecular Virology at The University of Manchester, affiliated with the Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics. She holds editorial roles at journals such as Frontiers in Virology and Biomolecules. Her research focuses on hepatitis C virus (HCV) pathogenesis, including mechanisms of immune evasion, stress responses, and translational control. She has contributed to the discovery of HCV genotypes and the development of diagnostic kits. Dr. Chan earned her PhD from the University of Edinburgh, supported by the Croucher Foundation Scholarship, and has held grants including the MRC Career Establishment Award. Education: BSc (First Class Honours) in Zoology, University of Hong Kong PhD in Molecular Biology, University of Edinburgh Research Interests: Her work explores how HCV evades immune clearance, the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in viral persistence, and translational mechanisms under oxidative stress. She investigates virus-host interactions, including apoptosis resistance and interferon resistance, with implications for antiviral therapies. Awards & Grants: Croucher Foundation Scholarship (Hong Kong) MRC Career Establishment Grant Named inventor on patents for HCV testing kits Advising & Labs: While specific student names are not listed, her research group focuses on viral molecular mechanisms. She collaborates on CRISPR-based vector control and SARS-CoV-2 antiviral strategies.