David Mota-Sanchez

Dr. David Mota-Sanchez is an **Associate Professor of Insect Toxicology** in the **Department of Entomology** at **Michigan State University (MSU)**, part of the **College of Agriculture & Natural Resources**. His research focuses on **arthropod resistance to pesticides**, **insecticide toxicology**, and **integrated pest management (IPM)**. He co-directs the **Arthropod Pesticide Resistance Database**, a globally recognized tool tracking pesticide resistance since 1914. His work spans **fall armyworm**, **Colorado potato beetle**, and **western flower thrips** resistance, with projects in the U.S., Mexico, and Latin America. He also leads **La Cosecha**, an extension program supporting Latino farmers in accessing USDA programs and grants, impacting over 200 farms and securing $3M in funding.

**Education & Experience**: Ph.D. in Entomology from MSU. Professional roles include Assistant Professor (MSU, 2009–present), Visiting Research Associate (MSU, 2003–2009), and roles in Mexico’s agricultural sector (1988–2002). Notable collaborations include work with Ecuador’s INIAP on pesticide impacts and a **Monarch butterfly conservation project** in Michigan and Mexico.

**Research Focus**: Combines lab techniques (e.g., radiotracer studies) with fieldwork to understand resistance mechanisms. Recent projects address **Bt toxin adaptation**, **transgenerational pesticide effects**, and **RNAi-based pest control**. His database is widely used by agencies like the EPA, USDA, FAO, and WHO.

**Grants & Impact**: Secured USDA grants (e.g., $600K for La Cosecha) and published over 100 peer-reviewed articles. His work highlights **sustainable pest management**, emphasizing resistance management through diversified tactics like refuge crops and pheromone use.

**Labs & Teams**: Leads the **Arthropod Pesticide Resistance Database team** and collaborates globally on projects like Myanmar’s fall armyworm control. His lab hosts visiting scientists from Turkey, China, Mexico, and Ecuador for training in xenobiotic adaptation research.