Dylan Parry

Dylan Parry is a Professor in the Department of Environmental Biology at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF), where he leads research on invasive species impacts and conservation solutions in forest ecosystems. His work addresses critical threats from pests like gypsy moths and swallow-worts through ecological analysis and field-based interventions.

Parry's research spans Invasive Species Ecology, Conservation Biology, and Entomology, with emphasis on climate-invasive species interactions. Key projects include biocontrol of swallow-worts using leaf beetles, investigating giant silk moth declines, and assessing non-target effects of transgenic American chestnut. His lab integrates physiological studies, field experiments, and ecological modeling to understand disturbance impacts and develop management strategies for threatened species like the bog buck moth.

Recent publications (2020-2024) reveal consistent focus on climate-driven adaptations in invasive forest insects, particularly metabolic rate variation, cold tolerance, and dispersal mechanisms across invasion fronts. His work connects thermal biology to range expansion dynamics, while also addressing conservation of rare insects like Northern Barrens tiger beetles and evaluating ecosystem-scale impacts of invasive pests.

Dylan Parry currently mentors four graduate students: David Harris (PhD, swallow-wort biocontrol), John McEachern (MS), Sam Quinn (PhD), and Amy Twohig (MS, plant pathogen-insect vectors). Recent graduates include Laura Stark (MS, earthworm-plant co-invasions), Fate Syewoangnuan (MS, invasive species management evaluation), and Chris Johnson (award-winning chestnut gall wasp research). His lab secures funding for initiatives like the bog buck moth captive breeding program and swallow-wort biocontrol.

The Parry Lab operates as an active field and laboratory research unit within SUNY ESF, conducting studies in New York forests and collaborating with agencies on invasive species management. Projects include climate-gypsy moth physiology investigations, pine barrens Lepidoptera restoration, and browntail moth resurgence analysis. The lab maintains public engagement through Instagram and high school outreach programs using plasticine caterpillar predation models.