Emily Sadler-Pitts

Emily Sadler-Pitts is an Assistant Professor in the Biology Department at Utah State University under the College of Arts & Sciences. Her research focuses on the taxonomy, ecology, and biogeography of nocturnal aculeate wasps, particularly within desert ecosystems.

Research Interests

• Taxonomy and systematics of Hymenoptera (Pompilidae, Mutillidae, Chyphotidae)
• Biogeography of southwestern desert arthropods
• Nocturnal wasp behavior and adaptations
• Species inventory methodologies
• Evolutionary morphology of stinging wasps

Publications

Her recent work examines species redescriptions, new species discoveries, and phylogenetic patterns in desert wasps. Key themes include comparative taxonomy, ecological adaptation, and historical biogeography across the Sonoran and Mojave Deserts, with a focus on nocturnal behavior and desert-specific evolutionary traits.

Education & Affiliations

Currently affiliated with Utah State University, she contributes to the Biology Department's research and teaching missions, particularly in entomology and biodiversity studies.