Wyatt Hoback

Wyatt Hoback is a Professor in the Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State University. He holds a Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (1999), an M.Sc. in Biology from Southwest Missouri State University (1995), and a B.A. in Biology/Ecology from Randolph-Macon College (1990). His research focuses on entomology, ecology, and conservation biology, with particular emphasis on carrion beetles, pesticide impacts on insects, and biological control strategies. He has been recognized with awards such as the National Excellence in Teaching and Student Engagement (2020) and the NACTA Educator Award (2019).

Dr. Hoback’s work spans multiple disciplines, including the effects of prescribed burns on endangered species, neonicotinoid toxicity to insects, and the distribution of tiger beetles. His teaching portfolio includes courses like Insects and Society, Aquatic Entomology, and Research Skills in Entomology. He has secured grants for projects like 'American Burying Beetle Project' (2020–2023) and 'Ozark Glade Biodiversity Inventory' (2023–2024). His research has been published in journals such as Insect Conservation and Diversity, PLOS ONE, and Southwestern Entomologist.

His grants and collaborations address ecological conservation, agricultural pest management, and biodiversity assessments. Recent work includes evaluating carrion beetle responses to fire events and investigating microbial communities in beetle secretions. Dr. Hoback actively contributes to entomological education and outreach through initiatives like the Entomological Society of America’s Teaching Section.