Rupesh Kariyat

Rupesh Kariyat is an Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at the University of Arkansas. He holds affiliate faculty roles in the Cell and Molecular Biology, Environmental Dynamics, and Bumpers College Honors Programs. His research focuses on plant defense mechanisms against herbivores, chemical ecology, and sustainable agriculture. Kariyat earned his PhD from Pennsylvania State University and has a strong track record in teaching and mentoring over 20 graduate and undergraduate students.

Education: PhD (Penn State, 2013), MS (University of Wyoming, 2008), BS (Kerala Agricultural University, 2005).

Research interests include plant-insect interactions, trichome-mediated defense, and crop resilience to biotic/abiotic stresses. His lab studies systems like sorghum, soybean, and nightshades. Recent grants include USDA-NIFA and Arkansas Soybean Board funding.

Notable awards: 2024 Entomological Society of America Teaching Excellence Award, 2021 American Society for Plant Biologists Teaching Award. Active in editorial roles for Journal of Applied Entomology and PLoS One.

Teaching includes courses on Insect Pest Management and Chemical Ecology. Lab collaborations span international institutions including ETH Zurich and Penn State.