Melissa Fierke

Dr. Melissa Fierke is a Professor in the Department of Environmental Biology at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. Her research primarily focuses on introduced forest insects such as emerald ash borer, elm zigzag sawfly, and Sirex noctilio, with additional work on burying beetles and black-legged ticks. She holds a B.S. in Environmental Chemistry and Environmental Biology from Arkansas Tech University, an M.S. in Fisheries Science and Environmental Science from Oregon State University, and a Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Arkansas.

Her research interests span forest entomology, invasive species management, biological control, and ecosystem-level impacts of insect invasions. Current projects include collaborations with SUNY Cobleskill on American burying beetle conservation and with NY DEC on elm zigzag sawfly monitoring.

Dr. Fierke maintains an active research lab with current postdoctoral scientist Timothy Morris and multiple graduate students. Her publications consistently address emerging challenges in forest health, with recent work emphasizing integrated pest management strategies, pollinator conservation, and ecological impacts of invasive species.

Awards and Honors:

• SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Faculty Service (2018/19)
• President's Award for Public Service and Outreach (2014/15, 2013/14)
• Distinguished Teacher Award (2013/14)

She teaches Systematic Entomology and serves as a reviewer for multiple journals including Forest Ecology & Management and Environmental Entomology.