معرفی
Ana Maria Velez is an Associate Professor at the Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her research focuses on insect responses to chemical stressors, particularly RNA interference (RNAi) and Bt toxins for pest management. With a 80% research and 20% teaching appointment, she leads the Insect Toxicology Lab and teaches courses like 'Toxins in the Environment' and 'Insecticide Toxicology.'
- Education:
- Ph.D. in Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2013
- M.S. in Entomology, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, 2009
- B.S. in Biology, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia, 2006
Her research spans molecular, organismal, and population levels to evaluate transgenic crops and RNAi technologies. Key areas include resistance mechanisms, non-target effects, and risk assessment frameworks. She has extensive publications on western corn rootworm and fall armyworm, emphasizing sustainable pest control. Her work also addresses sublethal impacts on non-target species like monarch butterflies and honeybees.
Recent articles highlight RNAi delivery optimization, Bt resistance dynamics, and ecological impacts of insecticides. Her lab collaborates on patents for RNAi-based pest suppression methods targeting chromatin remodeling and developmental genes.
Scientific Awards
- Distinguished Multicultural Alumni (2019)
- DuPont Young Professor Award (2016)
- International Congress of Entomology Travel Awards (2016)
- Widaman Trust Distinguished Graduate Assistant (2011)
- Milton E. Mohr Teaching Fellowship (2012)
The Vélez Arango Lab investigates durability and safety of insect control technologies, with emphasis on RNAi and Bt crops. Their work informs integrated pest management (IPM) systems and regulatory frameworks.
