Brian H Aukema

Brian H Aukema is a Professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Minnesota, affiliated with the Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center. His research focuses on invasive forest insects, chemical ecology, and integrated pest management strategies.

• Current projects include studying defoliating insects in Isle Royale, spruce budworm ecology, and symbiotic microbes in invasive beetles like the emerald ash borer.
• He collaborates with USDA Forest Service, National Park Service, and international partners on forest restoration initiatives.

His work emphasizes forest entomology, invasive species dynamics, and chemical signaling in insect-plant interactions. Recent publications analyze pheromone-driven behaviors, non-native weevil impacts, and pest threat assessments.

Grant funding includes support from the National Science Foundation (U.S.-China collaborations), USDA NIFA, and state agencies for hazelnut production resilience and beetle monitoring frameworks.