Joseph Staples

Dr. Joseph Staples is a faculty member in the Department of Environmental Science and Policy at the University of Maine, affiliated with the College of Science, Technology, and Health. His research spans environmental entomology, forest ecology, and STEM education pedagogy.

• Education: PhD in Biological Science from Illinois State University, MS and BS in Environmental Forest Biology & Chemical Ecology from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry.

Staples focuses on arthropod vector ecology, integrated pest management, and innovative teaching technologies. His work bridges empirical research with experiential education, emphasizing natural resource monitoring and student engagement. Collaborations include the Maine Medical Center Vector-Borne Disease Laboratory and the U.S. Forest Service.

Recent publications highlight bumblebee biodiversity, photosynthesis education, and chemical ecology of forest pests. Awards include a U.S. patent for specimen illumination technology.

• Scientific Awards: U.S. Patent No. 9,557,551 (2017) for a specimen illumination system.