John E. Banks

John E. Banks is a Professor and Director of the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center (UROC) at California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB). Previously, he served as a Professor of Environmental Science and academic administrator at the University of Washington Tacoma (1999–2015). He holds affiliate faculty roles at UW Tacoma, Washington State University (Entomology), and North Carolina State University (Mathematics).

Dr. Banks' research integrates quantitative ecology, ecotoxicology, and agroecology, with a focus on pesticide impacts, biological control, and ecosystem services. His work spans field studies in Costa Rica, Kenya, and Sweden, addressing biodiversity conservation in agricultural landscapes. Notable contributions include developing pesticide compatibility frameworks and ecological restoration strategies in tropical ecosystems.

His educational leadership includes directing the Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program and CSU LSAMP initiative, advancing STEM equity. Scholarly output includes over 99 publications across ecological modeling, conservation biology, and undergraduate research program design. Key awards include the Entomological Society of America Science Policy Fellowship (2018–2022).

Recent research trends emphasize mathematical models predicting pest suppression dynamics, decolonizing international study programs, and assessing pesticide risks through novel metrics like Delay in Population Growth Index. Grants and collaborations focus on expanding inclusive research opportunities for underrepresented students.