Emily McDermott

Emily McDermott is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at the University of Arkansas, serving as Director of the Experiment Station (DREX). She holds a BS in Entomology from The Ohio State University (2012) and a PhD in Entomology from the University of California-Riverside (2016). Her research focuses on livestock pest and vector ecology, with particular emphasis on Culicoides biting midges and their role in transmitting bluetongue virus (BTV) and epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV). Key projects include investigating vector ecology in Arkansas' agricultural landscapes, developing novel pest control tools, and studying emerging threats like the invasive Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis).

• Expertise: Medical/veterinary entomology, vector biology, arthropod-borne diseases
• Lab Focus: Livestock pest management, vector surveillance, disease ecology

Her research integrates field studies and laboratory analyses to address critical questions about vector competence, pathogen transmission dynamics, and pest control strategies. Recent work has explored microencapsulated insecticides, Culicoides habitat preferences, and tick movement patterns between wildlife and livestock. She teaches ENTO 40603/50603 Medical and Veterinary Entomology (Spring).

Publications span vector biology, disease ecology, and control methodologies, with contributions to high-impact journals like Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases and Acta Tropica. Her work directly supports Arkansas' agricultural economy, addressing pests affecting $600M/year beef cattle industry and leading poultry sector.