Lawrence M Hanks

Lawrence M Hanks is a Professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, affiliated with the School of Integrative Biology. His research focuses on insect ecology and behavior, particularly chemical ecology of longhorned beetles (Cerambycidae) and their interactions with host plants and natural enemies. He collaborates extensively with USDA and international institutions on invasive species monitoring and biological control.

• Education:
  • B.S. (1978), University of California, Davis
  • M.S. (1982), University of Nevada, Reno
  • Ph.D. (1991), University of Maryland, College Park

Research Interests span chemical communication in cerambycid beetles, pheromone-mediated mating systems, host plant resistance mechanisms, and conservation biological control of invasive forest pests. His work has established global frameworks for pheromone-based detection of non-native species.

Recent Publications (2023-2025) highlight discoveries of conserved pheromone components across continents, development of multi-species lures, and chemical communication in tropical and desert beetle species. Key findings include ethanol-pheromone synergy and enantiomer-specific behavioral responses.

Students and Collaborators include researchers at Penn State, Purdue, Xavier University, USDA facilities, and institutions in South Korea, Brazil, and Europe. His lab alumni hold academic and government positions globally, continuing work on invasive forest insects and chemical ecology.

Contact: 320 Morrill Hall, hanks@illinois.edu