Find Academic Supervisors

T'ai H. RoulstonView profile

Associate Professor

• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Plant-Insect Interactions
• +4 more

T'ai H. Roulston is an Associate Professor and Curator at the State Arboretum of Virginia, affiliated with the University of Virginia. His work focuses on the ecology and evolution of plant-insect interactions , particularly pollinator dynamics and parasitoid-host relationships. Research Areas: Bumble Bee Population Dynamics Ecosystem Services of Wild Pollinators Evolutionary Ecology of Bees and Parasitoid Flies Mason Bee Population Dynamics Recent publications highlight his lab's work on: Impacts of exotic bee species on native populations Parasitism effects on bumble bee behavior and survival Climate change influences on pollinator-plant interactions Land-use changes affecting bee communities Pollinator conservation strategies Pest control in agricultural systems Roulston's research integrates field studies with laboratory experiments, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and environmental stewardship in sustaining pollinator ecosystems.

• Animal behaviour
• Behavioural ecology
• Ecology
• +2 more

Zachary Emberts is an Assistant Professor of Integrative Biology at Oklahoma State University (OSU), where he has been since September 2022. He holds a Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Florida (2020) and a B.S. in Biology from the University of Minnesota (2016). Previously, he was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Arizona (2020–2022). His research focuses on animal behavior and evolutionary biology, particularly exploring how male-male combat influences weapon evolution, sexual selection, and defensive structures. He combines experimental manipulations with phylogenetic comparative methods to investigate topics like fighting behavior, weapon allometry, and the ecological consequences of coloration. Notable areas include the evolution of aposematism, sexual signals, and the interplay between nutrition and weapon performance. Emberts has secured grants such as the NSF Postdoctoral Fellowship in Biology (2020–2022) and an EAPSI fellowship (2016–2017). His teaching responsibilities include courses like General Ecology, Evolution, and Undergraduate Research Problems, reflecting his commitment to both research and education. His work has been published in high-impact journals such as Proceedings of the Royal Society B , Behavioral Ecology , and Biological Reviews . Key contributions include demonstrating how defensive shields evolve in response to combat, the role of nutrition in weapon durability, and the lack of trade-offs between weapons and testes under high social densities. His research also explores the broader evolutionary implications of coloration in animals and the ecological drivers behind shifts in host plant use among insects.

Elzemiek GeuverinkView profile

Assistant Professor

• Evolutionary Genetics
• Sex Determination
• Insect Genomics
• +3 more

Elzemiek Geuverink is Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Science and Engineering at University of Groningen. She investigates genetic mechanisms underlying developmental variation using functional genomics approaches. Research integrates phylogenetic screens and molecular techniques (RNAi, protein interaction studies) to examine: Evolution of sex determination pathways across insects Bacterial manipulation of host reproduction Chemoreceptor evolution in Hymenoptera Publications in Nature Communications and Molecular Ecology reveal specialization in parasitoid wasp genetics, particularly regarding endosymbiont-induced parthenogenesis. Current work focuses on molecular mechanisms of bacterial interference in sex determination using next-generation sequencing technologies. Teaching responsibilities include coordinating Research Skills courses and Molecular Methods in Ecology & Evolution. She serves on the Entomology section of the Netherlands Entomological Society.

Philip KohlmeierView profile

Assistant Professor

• Neurogenetics
• Behavioral genetics
• Sociobiology
• +5 more

Philip Kohlmeier is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Memphis, USA. His research focuses on the epigenetic, transcriptomic, neurogenetic, and physiological mechanisms that modulate behavior and their evolutionary implications. Education: B.S. & M.S. in Biology from German universities; PhD from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Postdoc at Groningen University, Netherlands Model Systems: Social hymenopterans (ants, bees, wasps) and fruit flies ( Drosophila melanogaster ) Key Techniques: Field studies, behavioral experiments, RNA-sequencing, neurophysiological recordings, genetic manipulations The Kohlmeier Lab investigates behavioral task specialization in social insects and maternal RNA regulation in Drosophila . His work spans neurogenetics, behavioral ecology, and molecular evolution. Recent research trends include analyzing Zaprionus indianus interactions, exploring pheromone-based social learning, and studying epigenetic regulation of insect behavior. His work integrates molecular mechanisms with ecological and evolutionary contexts. Contact: pkhlmier@memphis.edu

• Notch Signaling
• Cell Differentiation
• Ubiquitin Ligase Regulation
• +2 more

Martin Baron is a Senior Lecturer in the Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics at the University of Manchester. His research focuses on the regulation of Notch receptor signalling during development, particularly how endosomal sorting mechanisms control cell differentiation decisions. Using Drosophila models, his group investigates negative regulators like Suppressor of Deltex (Su(dx)) and their role in preventing inappropriate Notch activation that can lead to tumors. His work spans biochemical, genetic, and molecular approaches to understand fundamental cellular communication processes. Research interests center on: Dynamic regulation of Notch signaling pathways Endosomal trafficking and receptor sorting mechanisms E3 ubiquitin ligase functions in development Evolutionary conservation of signaling pathways from insects to humans Tissue-specific differentiation control Publication trends show consistent focus on Notch pathway mechanisms, with recent work expanding into disease models including CADASIL and cancer-related signaling abnormalities. Articles frequently incorporate advanced imaging techniques, genetic manipulation, and biochemical characterization across model systems.

Benjamin NaviaView profile

Professor

• Neurobiology
• Auditory Behavior
• Crickets' Phonotaxis
• +3 more

Benjamin Navia is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Andrews University since 2013. He holds a BS in General Science from the Catholic University of Puerto Rico, an MS in Biology from Andrews University, and a PhD in Biology from Loma Linda University. His research focuses on the neural mechanisms underlying auditory behavior in crickets, particularly phonotaxis in female Acheta domesticus. Dr. Navia investigates how neuronal circuits process acoustic signals for mate localization and recognition, with studies on neuromodulators, temperature effects, and behavioral plasticity. He teaches Neurobiology, Foundations of Biology, and Anatomy & Physiology. His work bridges neuroethology and education, including service-learning initiatives to engage students. Key contributions include nanoinjection studies modulating neurotransmitters and elucidating temperature's parallel effects on cricket communication systems. Collaborative projects involve undergraduate researchers and跨-institutional partnerships. Publications span 1999-2024, emphasizing auditory neuroscience in insects. Teaching innovations include integrating Panopto video tools and evaluating student perceptions of evolution education in Christian colleges. His lab utilizes electrophysiological, behavioral, and molecular techniques to explore sensory processing and neuronal plasticity in cricket models.

Robert A. RagusoView profile

Professor

• Plant-Insect Interactions
• Chemical Ecology
• Floral Scent Evolution
• +7 more

Robert A. Raguso is a Professor of Neurobiology and Behavior at Cornell University, affiliated with the College of Arts and Sciences. His research integrates chemical ecology, plant-insect interactions, and sensory biology, focusing on floral scent, pollination mechanisms, and ecological networks. He leads the Raguso Lab, which explores how chemical and physical signals mediate plant-animal interactions across scales. His work emphasizes natural history, biosynthetic pathways, and the role of humidity, temperature, and scent in pollination systems. Research Interests: Floral scent evolution, pollinator behavior, chemical communication, and ecological adaptation. Key Projects: Study of cycad pollination via humidity signals, floral volatiles in Clarkia and Onagraceae species, and the impacts of environmental stresses on plant-pollinator interactions. Raguso teaches courses such as Chemical Ecology (BIONB 3690) and Plant-Insect Interactions (BIONB 7640), emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches. He has received the 2025 SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence. His lab collaborates widely, with research spanning deserts, tropical Andes, and Mediterranean ecosystems. Recent work includes experimental manipulations of floral signals and their effects on pollinator behavior.

Jérôme CasasView profile

Professor

• Physical ecology of insects
• Consumer-resource interactions
• Sensory ecology
• +7 more

Jérôme Casas is a full Professor at the University of Tours, France, and leads the Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte (IRBI) as its Vice Director since 2011. His research integrates physiology, ecology, and biomechanics of insects, focusing on consumer-resource dynamics, sensory ecology of mimetism, and bioinspired technology like biomimetic flow sensing. His interdisciplinary group combines applied mathematicians, engineers, and biologists to study insect natural history through advanced technology and modeling. Research Themes : Physical ecology of insects, plant-insect interactions, nutrient acquisition, climate change impacts, and biologically-inspired engineering Labs & Collaborations : IRBI (CNRS UMR 7261) with international scientific networks Scientific Leadership : Served on governing boards of BIOKON, FRB, and Canada Research Chairs committee. His students have won prestigious awards including BES Haldane/Elton Prizes and ABS Allee Award. Key Awards : ETH medal for top 10% thesis, IUF junior/senior member, Distinguished Invited Professor at University of Arizona Academic Legacy : 15+ articles spanning 1988-2012 on host-parasitoid systems, nutrient dynamics, and sensory ecology. Mentored numerous researchers across Europe and South America.

• Entomology
• Parasitoid-Wasp Interactions
• Behavioral Immunity
• +3 more

Todd Schlenke is an Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Arizona. His research focuses on understanding the molecular, genetic, and behavioral mechanisms underlying host-parasitoid interactions, particularly between Drosophila fruit flies and their parasitoid wasps. He investigates how flies detect and defend against parasitoids through behaviors like self-medication, physical encapsulation, and chemical signaling. His work bridges evolutionary biology, immunology, and genetics to uncover coevolutionary dynamics in these systems. Key research interests include the role of JAK-STAT signaling in parasitoid resistance, the manipulation of host resources by endoparasitoids, and the genetic basis of behavioral immune responses. Schlenke has contributed to developing molecular tools for parasitoid wasps and created databases for parasitoid identification. His grants include an EAGER project (2020) for functional genetic tools and NSF-funded studies on transposon movement between fly and wasp genomes. His research highlights tradeoffs between defense strategies and reproductive fitness, with notable findings on ethanol-based self-medication in flies and the role of hemomucin in immune responses. While no awards are listed here, his work has significantly advanced understanding of host-parasite interactions at ecological and molecular levels.

• Environmental Sciences
• Genetics
• Tree Improvement
• +3 more

Professor Rod Griffin is a University Associate at the University of Tasmania's School of Natural Sciences. His research focuses on plant genetics, tree improvement, and sustainable forestry practices, particularly in Acacia and Eucalyptus species. Key areas include polyploid breeding, hybridization, and reproductive biology, with applications in tropical and temperate forestry systems. He has led multiple grants totaling over $6M AUD, including projects on Acacia breeding methodologies and genetic resource management in Vietnam, Australia, and South Africa. His work emphasizes practical solutions for improving plantation productivity while addressing ecological concerns. Publications span topics like hybrid seed production, polyploid fertility, and global Acacia uses. He has collaborated internationally with institutions such as CSIRO, CRC Forestry, and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research. Griffin’s contributions include developing molecular tools (e.g., microsatellite markers) for species discrimination and breeding program optimization. His research bridges fundamental genetics with applied forestry, aiming to enhance tree resilience and economic viability in diverse environments.

Md. Jamil BiswasView profile

Researcher

• Entomology
• Pest Management
• Insect Physiology
• +3 more

Md. Jamil Biswas is a researcher in the Department of Applied BioSciences at Macquarie University, focusing on entomology and pest management. His work emphasizes insect physiology, particularly in the context of biological control strategies for agricultural pests like the Queensland fruit fly ( Bactrocera tryoni ). He investigates the effects of dietary supplements (e.g., raspberry ketone, methoprene) and environmental factors (e.g., chilling, domestication) on insect behavior and reproduction. His research contributes to improving the sterile insect technique for pest control. Biswas collaborates on studies involving honeybee parasites and gut microbiota manipulation. His findings are published in journals like Journal of Applied Entomology and Journal of Pest Science .

Michael SitvarinView profile

Visiting Assistant Professor

• Animal Behavior
• Ecology
• Invertebrate Biology
• +6 more

Michael Sitvarin is a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Biology Department at Union College. His research focuses on predator-prey interactions, particularly using spiders as model organisms, and explores topics such as sensory ecology, cannibalism, sexual selection, and ecological impacts of predation. He holds a B.S. from Muhlenberg College and a Ph.D. from Miami University. Sitvarin teaches courses like Intro to Environmental Science and actively engages students in research opportunities. His work bridges field observations with laboratory experiments to understand ecological dynamics and invasive species management. Despite not currently listed with major grants or awards, his publications emphasize analytical methodologies, invasive species impacts, and symbiotic relationships in arthropods. Education: B.S., Muhlenberg College Ph.D., Miami University Research Themes: Predator-Prey Behavior Invasive Species Ecology Sensory Adaptations Ecological Journalism Recent Work Trends: Focus on analytical consistency in ecological studies Impact assessments of invasive spiders like Trichonephila clavata Symbiotic relationships affecting reproductive outcomes

Jan KreiderView profile

Researcher

• Evolution of Eusociality
• Phenotypic Plasticity
• Social Evolution
• +3 more

Jan Kreider is a Guest Researcher in the Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Groningen, affiliated with the Pen group specializing in Theoretical Evolutionary Ecology. His work integrates mathematical modeling, field experiments, and molecular genetics to investigate evolutionary transitions in social behavior. His primary research focuses on the evolution of eusociality , examining how reproductive division of labor emerges in species like the allodapine bee Exoneura robusta . Key interests include phenotypic plasticity, maternal manipulation effects, and the coevolution of signaling systems in social insects. His methodological approach combines individual-based simulations with empirical validation. Recent publication trends reveal strong emphasis on theoretical frameworks for eusocial evolution , with recurring themes in offspring size manipulation, caste determination mechanisms, and challenges to monogamy-based inclusive fitness theories. His 2024-2025 outputs show increasing integration of molecular genetics with classic evolutionary models. Kreider actively collaborates within the Pen group and has presented findings on resource sharing dynamics at academic conferences. His experimental work centers on Exoneura robusta as a model system for understanding intraspecific variation in social behavior.

Ryan ArvidsonView profile

Assistant Professor

• G-protein coupled receptors
• Bioinformatics
• Molecular Modeling
• +12 more

Ryan Arvidson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at the School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University. His research integrates computational and experimental approaches to study G-protein coupled receptors and neurochemical signaling systems. He employs bioinformatics, molecular modeling, and cell biology techniques in both mammalian and insect models. His research focuses on structure-function relationships in GPCRs, especially adenosine receptors, neurokinin receptors, and sweet taste receptors. He investigates how these receptors discriminate G-protein subtypes and regulate intracellular signaling cascades. Additional interests include apoptosis modulation via wasp venom peptides and adenosine signaling under cellular stress. His lab is pioneering the use of the cockroach as a neuroscience model by building transcriptomic and gene expression profiles of its central nervous system. The recent publications demonstrate a strong trend in neurochemical manipulation by parasitoid wasps, venom peptide discovery, and host adaptation mechanisms. His work spans molecular neuroscience, toxicology, and evolutionary physiology, with increasing emphasis on comparative neurobiology and transcriptomics. The integration of proteomics and functional genomics underscores a systems-level approach to understanding neural control and behavior. No scientific awards mentioned in the text. There is no explicit information about graduate students or advising roles. No grants or funding sources are listed in the provided content. Ryan Arvidson's research is conducted through an active laboratory focused on neurochemical signaling, venom biology, and insect neuroscience. His team works on characterizing novel peptides from wasp venom, studying GPCR activation mechanisms, and developing the cockroach as a model system for neurodegeneration and aging studies. The lab bridges molecular biochemistry with behavioral neuroscience, utilizing transcriptomic tools and cell-based assays.

Jen WhiteView profile

Professor

• Insect Ecology
• Symbiosis
• Evolutionary Biology
• +3 more

Jen White is a Professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Kentucky, within the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. Her research focuses on the ecological, evolutionary, and behavioral effects of bacterial endosymbionts in arthropods, particularly exploring their impacts on introduced species and biological control. Current work examines the symbiont-infected spider Mermessus fradeorum , investigating symbiont interactions and their effects on host populations. Her research interests include symbiosis, evolutionary biology, and insect ecology. She advises numerous graduate and undergraduate students, with notable alumni including Dr. Emily Durkin (University of Tampa) and Dr. Justin Kratovil (University of Connecticut). Key publications highlight discoveries about symbiont-driven reproductive manipulation, microbial diversity in agricultural spiders, and symbiont effects on aphid defense. Her lab actively recruits students bridging theoretical and empirical approaches to host-symbiont dynamics.