Leo Beukeboom

Professor Leo Beukeboom is a faculty member in the Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Groningen, leading the Beukeboom lab focused on Evolutionary Genetics. His expertise spans evolutionary genetics, entomology, and insect reproductive biology. He serves as Editor-in-Chief of Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata and Director of the Erasmus Mundus Master Programme in Evolutionary Biology (MEME). He advises companies Amusca Breeding B.V. and Tryptomera B.V. His research investigates mechanisms of insect reproduction, sex determination, and photoperiodism in parasitoid wasps (Nasonia, Asobara) and flies (Musca, Drosophila). Recent projects include INSECTFEED (insect-based sustainable feed), CINCHRON (circadian rhythm studies in Nasonia), and eco-evo-devo theories of eusociality.

Research interests emphasize genetic and evolutionary processes in insect reproduction, including parthenogenesis, haplodiploidy, and applications in pest control and sustainable agriculture. He has supervised 29 students, with notable advisees including Kreider, Vogel, and van der Bruggen. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to sustainable food systems and biodiversity conservation.

Key collaborations span circadian biology, evolutionary traps, and insect genetic analysis. Datasets include circadian clock gene expression in Nasonia and genetic analysis of parasitoid host preferences. Media engagements highlight his work on sex determination, insect farming, and evolutionary biology education.