S. Patricia Stock

S. Patricia Stock is a Professor and Director of the School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences at the University of Arizona. She holds a joint appointment in the Department of Entomology and is also a Professor in the Honors College. Her academic journey began in Argentina, where she earned her B.S. and Ph.D. from Universidad Nacional de La Plata, followed by research at UC Davis before joining the University of Arizona in 2001.

• B.S. in Biology (Zoology), Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Argentina
• Ph.D. in Natural Sciences (Parasitology and Nematology), Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Argentina
• Postdoctoral Training, University of California, Davis

Dr. Stock's research centers on entomopathogenic nematodes (Steinernema and Heterorhabditis) and their bacterial symbionts (Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus), which serve as a model system for studying terrestrial animal-microbe symbiosis. Her work explores host-symbiont interactions, multitrophic dynamics, nematode biodiversity, and the discovery of bioactive compounds with agricultural applications. She has contributed significantly to the understanding of symbiont-assisted resource acquisition, pheromone production, and secondary metabolite biosynthesis.

Her recent publications reveal a consistent focus on the molecular and ecological mechanisms underlying nematode-bacterial symbioses, including bacterial competition, virulence modulation, and environmental adaptation. Themes across her work include microbial interactions, evolutionary biology, and sustainable pest management.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• Founders Lecture Award, Society for Invertebrate Pathology (2018)
• Fulbright Scholar, Senior Specialist Program (2006)
• David E. Cox Faculty Teaching Award, University of Arizona (2014)
• President, Organization of Nematologists of Tropical America (2009)
• Academic Leadership Fellow, UA Academic Leadership Program (2011)
• Multiple honors appointments in the University of Arizona Honors College (2014–2017)

Dr. Stock has served in numerous leadership roles, including editor of the book Insect Pathogens: Molecular Approaches and Techniques, associate editor for several journals, and active participation in scientific societies such as SIP, SON, ONTA, and ISS. She mentors students and advises on research projects, contributing to both basic science and applied biological control strategies.