Aaron Gross

Aaron Gross is an Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, specializing in Toxicology & Physiology. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms of arthropod pest control affecting human health, animal welfare, and agriculture.

Education:

• B.S. Biochemistry (2007), St. Cloud State University
• B.S. Biomedical Sciences (2007), St. Cloud State University
• M.S. Toxicology (2010), Iowa State University
• Ph.D. Toxicology (2014), Iowa State University
• Postdoctoral training, Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida

Research Focus: Dr. Gross leads the Molecular Physiology and Toxicology Laboratory investigating insecticide/acaricide resistance mechanisms, novel insecticide discovery targeting GPCRs and ion channels, and tick-host immune evasion. His work integrates molecular biology, electrophysiology, and biochemical approaches to develop sustainable pest management strategies for vectors like Amblyomma americanum and agricultural pests including Aethina tumida.

Publication Trends (2020-2025): Recent work emphasizes cross-resistance mechanisms in Drosophila, synergism between plant compounds and synthetic insecticides, and molecular characterization of targets like cholinesterases. Key models include honey bees, ticks, mosquitoes, and small hive beetles, addressing critical gaps in resistance management and novel target identification.

Professional Engagement:

• Active member: Entomological Society of America, American Chemical Society, Sigma Xi, Society of Vector Ecology, Virginia Mosquito Control Association
• Editorial reviewer for Insects journal

Teaching: Instructs graduate courses ENT 6154 (Insect Physiology and Molecular Biology) and ENT 6164 (Insect Toxicology), training students in advanced toxicological methodologies and molecular physiology.

Laboratory: The Molecular Physiology and Toxicology Laboratory (www.vtmptl.com) employs baculoviral expression systems, electrophysiology, and biochemical assays to characterize insecticide targets and resistance mechanisms, with ongoing projects on GPCR pharmacology and vector immune evasion.