Ellen Yerger

Dr. Ellen Yerger is a Professor in the Biology Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), part of the John J. and Char Kopchick College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. She holds a PhD in Entomology from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and has conducted postdoctoral research at Pennsylvania State University. Her academic background includes a BS in Biology (Honors) from Union College and an MS in Chemistry from UIUC.

Dr. Yerger’s research focuses on entomology, insect-plant interactions, and biological invasions. Key projects include studying invasive plant impacts on insect populations, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) symbiosis, and biological control strategies for the hemlock woolly adelgid. She has published extensively on topics such as trophic cascades in forests, deer overbrowsing effects, and pest resistance mechanisms in plants.

Her teaching spans courses like Ecology and Evolution (BIOL 201), Cell and Molecular Biology (BIOL 202), and Entomology Principles (BIOL 420/520). Her work bridges ecological research and educational innovation, including studies on lab design for student competency development.

Dr. Yerger’s research spans over three decades, with notable contributions to understanding insect-plant dynamics, mycorrhizal ecology, and the ecological consequences of invasive species. Her publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches, integrating botany, entomology, and environmental science.