Lance S. Osborne

Lance S. Osborne is a Professor of Entomology and Associate Center Director at the University of Florida's Mid-Florida Research and Education Center (MREC). His research focuses on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and biological control of ornamental plant pests, including thrips, whiteflies, mealybugs, and mites. He has held academic positions since 1981, advancing from Assistant to Full Professor, and has contributed to over 50 peer-reviewed publications and patents related to pest control technologies.

Osborne’s work emphasizes practical solutions for pest management in agricultural and horticultural systems. Key areas include developing banker plant systems, evaluating pesticides, and advancing biological control agents like fungi and parasitoids. His patents, such as those for PFR-977 (Paecilomyces fumosoroseus), highlight his focus on reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. He collaborates with industry partners to commercialize biological control methods globally.

His research also addresses invasive species like Thrips parvispinus and rugose spiraling whitefly, exploring their biology, distribution, and management. Osborne’s lab, the LSO Lab, is a hub for studying pest ecology and sustainable control strategies. He has advised numerous graduate students and researchers, contributing to training the next generation of entomologists.