Christa Schafellner is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Forest Entomology, Forest Pathology and Forest Protection at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna. Her research focuses on invasive forest pests, biological control mechanisms, and the ecological impacts of climate change on insect populations. Recent research highlights include investigations into parasitoid-pathogen interactions in Lymantria dispar populations, the rapid spread of invasive species like Corythucha arcuata , and entomopathogen establishment in European forests. Her work bridges field ecology with laboratory-based physiological studies. Scientific contributions span 15+ years, with key studies on microsporidian transmission dynamics, juvenile hormone metabolism in host-parasitoid systems, and climate change effects on defoliator outbreaks. She has published extensively in multilingual journals across Europe.
Martin Schebeck is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), specializing in Forest Entomology at the Department of Forest Entomology, Forest Pathology and Forest Protection. His research focuses on the evolutionary ecology, population genetics, and physiological adaptations of bark beetles in response to climate change. Key Research Areas : Bark beetle diapause mechanisms Genomic adaptations to climate stressors Insect-microbiome symbiosis Phenological shifts under warming Recent work examines temperature-dependent development, inversion polymorphism in pest genomes, and olfactory adaptations in Ips species. His publications highlight cross-disciplinary insights into forest pest management and biodiversity conservation. Notable methodological contributions include leveraging RAD sequencing for phylogeography and studying diapause plasticity in bark beetles. He maintains a teaching authorization in Entomology at BOKU.
Graham Taylor is a Professor and Canada Research Chair in Machine Learning at the University of Guelph's School of Engineering, and a Canada CIFAR AI Chair at the Vector Institute for Artificial Intelligence. He leads the Machine Learning Research Group, focusing on deep learning applications for biodiversity monitoring and human-centered AI systems. PhD in Computer Science from University of Toronto (2009), advised by Geoffrey Hinton and Sam Roweis Postdoctoral research at NYU's Courant Institute with Chris Bregler, Rob Fergus, and Yann LeCun His research spans deep learning , generative modeling , graph representation learning , and sequential decision making . Recent work focuses on vision-genomics integration for biodiversity analysis, including BIOSCAN-5M dataset creation and CLIBD framework development. His publications show strong emphasis on AI applications in biodiversity and vision transformer optimization , with recurring themes in data scarcity mitigation , label noise handling , and efficient model architectures . Canada's Top 40 Under 40 (2018) Canada CIFAR AI Chair (2019) Canada Research Chair in Machine Learning Graham advises 5 current graduate students and has mentored numerous researchers who now hold positions at institutions like Meta, NVIDIA, and Borealis AI. His group actively explores NSF+NSERC-funded projects on machine learning for biodiversity.
Dr Bryan Lessard is an entomologist at CSIRO’s National Research Collections Australia, where he serves as an OCE Postdoctoral Fellow and member of the Research and Curation Team at the Australian National Insect Collection. He is also a Visiting Fellow and lecturer in Invertebrate Biology at the Australian National University. His research spans taxonomy, genomics, biodiversity discovery, and the sustainable use of edible insects. PhD, Australian National University (2013) Bachelor of Biotechnology (Advanced) Honours I, University of Wollongong (2008) Dr Lessard's research focuses on the systematics and evolution of medically important flies and mosquitoes, utilizing integrative taxonomy, metabarcoding, and collection genomics. He has discovered over 150 new species and named more than 50, including the iconic Scaptia beyonceae. His work extends to pollination ecology, forensic biology, and the development of Australia’s edible insect industry through collaboration with industry and policy makers. His recent publications reflect a strong trend in biodiversity science, combining traditional taxonomy with modern genomic and bioinformatic tools to address challenges in biosystematics, climate change impacts, and sustainable food systems. Key themes include mosquito classification, pollinator networks, and the commercialization of native edible insects. ACT Tall Poppy of The Year Award (2018–) Member of the Australian Science Superheroes (2018–) Early Career Research Excellence Award, Society of Australian Systematic Biologists (2017–) TEDx Talk, TEDx Canberra (2016–) Council of Heads of Australian Entomological Collections Speaker Prize (2016–) Presidential Prize for Best Presentation, Entomological Society of America (2011–) Dr Lessard actively supervises students and has led citizen science initiatives such as the Australian Geographic Citizen Scientist Expedition. He has secured significant grant funding from CSIRO and the Australian Biological Resources Study for projects on edible insects, mosquito biosystematics, and climate change impacts. He advises insect farming enterprises like Goterra and has contributed to national policy on insect-based livestock feed. He is also an Associate Editor for the journal Zoologia . Dr Lessard leads public engagement through media appearances (ABC, BBC, CNN), radio segments as “Bry the Fly Guy,” and educational outreach. He has led expeditions to Lord Howe Island and authored the children’s book Eyes on Flies , promoting entomology to younger audiences.
Dr. Frank Koch is a researcher and curator of the Hymenoptera collection at the Museum of Natural History, Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Research in Berlin. His work focuses on the taxonomy, biogeography, phylogeny, and ecology of Afrotropical Symphyta (sawflies), with a particular emphasis on species discovery and classification in southern Africa and Namibia. Research projects led by Dr. Koch include studies on The Symphyta of the Afromontane Region funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), and Snail shells as microhabitats in arid biomes of southern Africa supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG). He has contributed to major publications on sawfly biodiversity and collaborated with institutions like BIOTA-Southern Africa Project. His recent publications (1995–2010) span topics such as new species descriptions in Sclerogibbidae and Argidae families, revisions of genera like Xenapates and Triarge, and ecological studies on insect-mollusk interactions in desert environments. These works highlight his expertise in Hymenoptera systematics and Afrotropical biodiversity. Contact: frank.koch@mfn.berlin
Prof. Dr. Carsten Lüter is a Professor at the Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Research in Berlin, Germany. He serves as Curator of Marine Invertebrates, coordinates morphology laboratories, and holds an adjunct professorship at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin. His research focuses on the evolution and neurobiology of marine invertebrates, particularly brachiopods and echinoderms. Key interests include photoreception mechanisms, deep-sea biodiversity, phylogenetic systematics, and taxonomic cataloging of marine fauna. He employs molecular, morphological, and imaging techniques to study evolutionary adaptations in benthic ecosystems. Lüter's publications emphasize brachiopod evolution, sensory biology in echinoderms, and biogeographic patterns. His work frequently integrates genomics, proteomics, and micro-CT imaging to analyze invertebrate anatomy and biomineralization. He leads multiple international projects, including: Studying sea-urchin dermal photoreception (HFSPO, 2019–2023) EvoCELL: Animal evolution from a cell-type perspective (EU MSCA, 2017–present) Deep-sea biodiversity exploration (BMBF-funded expeditions in the Coral Sea, Indian Ocean) He advises PhD and Master’s students on topics ranging from brachiopod genetics to echinoderm neurobiology. His lab group includes technicians specializing in electron microscopy and histology, supporting research on invertebrate morphology and evolution.
Michael Ohl is an Adjunct Professor at Humboldt-University zu Berlin and serves as a Senior Researcher at the Museum of Natural History Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Research. He is Curator for Neuropterida, Orthopteroidea, and Sphecidae wasps, and holds leadership roles including Deputy Head of Science Programme Collection Development and Biodiversity Discovery and Head of the Biodiversity Discovery Department. Curator for Neuropterida, Orthopteroidea, and Sphecidae Deputy Head of Science Programme Collection Development and Biodiversity Discovery Head of Entomological Collections Adjunct Professor at Humboldt-University zu Berlin His research focuses on the taxonomy, phylogeny, and evolution of holometabolous insects, particularly Hymenoptera (wasps, bees, ants) and Neuropterida (lacewings). He specializes in apoid wasps (Ampulicidae, Heterogynaidae, Sphecidae, Crabronidae) and Mantispidae, integrating morphological, molecular, and historical data. His work also explores theoretical systematics and the history of biological classification. Recent publications include studies on mantispid taxonomy, phylogenomic analysis of Apoidea, and the role of scientific taxonomy in conservation. He has authored books on insect natural history and nomenclature. Michael Ohl leads DFG-funded projects on sting apparatus evolution and antennal morphology in aculeate wasps. His academic contributions span over 15 peer-reviewed articles, including cladistic analyses, fossil records, and global biodiversity initiatives.
Professor Martin Parniske is a faculty member at the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) , where he serves as the Head of the Institute of Genetics within the Faculty of Biology. He is also the Speaker of the DFG Collaborative Research Centre TRR356 PlantMicrobe , focusing on "Genetic Diversity Shaping Biotic Interactions of Plants" (2023–2026). Parniske teaches at the Bachelor, Master, and doctoral levels on topics including Genetics , Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions , and Sustainable Food Production . Alma mater: University of Konstanz and University of Marburg Postdoctoral work: Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Sainsbury Laboratory Faculty leadership: Dean of Faculty of Biology (2011–2013) Research Interests Genetics of Plant Root Endosymbiosis: Elucidating shared genetic mechanisms for arbuscular mycorrhiza and nitrogen-fixing rhizobia symbioses, including identification of common symbiosis genes (e.g., receptor-like kinases, nucleoporins, potassium channels, CCaMK/CYCLOPS complex). Evolution of Plant Disease Resistance Genes: Demonstrating how recombination within and between resistance gene clusters enables plants to adapt to pathogen evolution, particularly in tomato Cf-4/9 locus . Chemical Communication Between Bacteria and Plant Roots: Discovering isoflavonoid-induced resistance in soybean rhizobia against phytoalexin glyceollin and defense responses in incompatible symbioses. Scientific Contributions include: Defining calcium signaling as a central hub in symbiotic and pathogenic interactions Elucidating the role of CYCLOPS as a DNA-binding transcriptional activator in symbiosis Developing TRR356 to leverage natural genetic variation for improving plant biotic interactions Grants & Awards : 2013 ERC Advanced Grant for symbiosis mechanism evolution 2014–2015 Thomson Reuters Highly Cited Researcher (Animal/Plant Sciences) Postdoctoral fellowships: DFG, EMBO, European Union Advising & Lab : Mentors doctoral candidates (Preeti Sahu, Maria Spezzati, Yifan Zhu) and postdocs (Chloé Cathebras). The lab at LMU's Biocenter studies symbiotic signal transduction, including CCaMK/CYCLOPS complex dynamics, using CRISPR/Cas , FRET-FLIM , and reverse genetics in Lotus japonicus.
Dave Biddinger is an Associate Professor of Entomology at Pennsylvania State University's College of Agricultural Sciences, conducting research at the Biglerville facility. His work focuses on integrated pest management programs in tree fruits, with particular emphasis on evaluating insecticides and acaricides for controlling pests while protecting pollinator health. His research addresses critical challenges in balancing agricultural productivity with ecosystem conservation, especially regarding invasive species like the spotted lanternfly. Dr. Biddinger's research interests center on the complex interactions between pest management practices and pollinator conservation. His work examines how pesticides affect various bee species, including honey bees and solitary bees like Osmia cornifrons , investigating sublethal effects on development, microbiome diversity, and energy metabolism. He also studies invasive species management, particularly for spotted lanternfly control, while developing strategies to minimize harm to beneficial insects. His research combines field studies in apple orchards with molecular and physiological approaches to understand pesticide impacts across multiple biological levels. Analysis of Dr. Biddinger's recent publications reveals a strong focus on the intersection of pest management and pollinator conservation. His work systematically examines pesticide impacts on bees, particularly neonicotinoids and fungicides, documenting effects on larval development, microbiome composition, and survival. He also investigates biological control of invasive pests and develops monitoring approaches using community science. His research spans from molecular mechanisms of pesticide detoxification to landscape-level pollination models, providing a comprehensive understanding of how agricultural practices affect pollinator health. Dr. Biddinger actively collaborates with numerous researchers across institutions on projects related to pollinator health and pest management. His work has been featured in multiple news outlets, highlighting the importance of bee conservation and effective pest management strategies. He contributes to Penn State Extension publications that provide practical guidance to farmers and stakeholders on managing pests like the spotted lanternfly while protecting pollinator populations.
Andrew Deans is a Professor in the Department of Entomology at Pennsylvania State University. His research focuses on the taxonomy, systematics, and ecology of Hymenoptera, particularly gall wasps (Cynipidae) and related parasitoid lineages. University: Pennsylvania State University Department: Entomology Email: ard19@psu.edu Deans' research spans diverse topics including: Taxonomic revisions of gall wasp species complexes Development of GallOnt, an ontology for plant gall phenotypes Biogeographic studies of Hymenoptera in Canada, Alaska, Greenland, and Central Asia Ecological interactions such as ant dispersal mechanisms in oak galls Extreme defensive adaptations in cynipid galls Cultural entomology through arthropod references in haiku His recent publications (2022-2025) emphasize integrative taxonomy, with 22 new Ceroptres species described, and novel insights into gall induction mechanisms through venom gland anatomy. Collaborative works highlight global biodiversity patterns and ecological convergence between plant seeds and insect galls. Deans' lab has been featured in media outlets for groundbreaking discoveries, including a child's backyard observation that reshaped understanding of insect-plant interactions and a newly identified defense strategy in gall wasps. He contributes to DNA barcoding initiatives and develops standardized frameworks for gall phenotype documentation.
Michael Gannon is a Professor in the Division of Mathematics & Natural Sciences at Penn State Altoona, part of Penn State University. His research spans zoology, evolution, and museum science, with a strong focus on bat ecology in both temperate and tropical ecosystems. Research Interests: His work emphasizes population and community ecology of bats, habitat selection, echolocation, ectoparasite interactions, and the effects of environmental disturbances such as hurricanes. He has conducted extensive field studies in Puerto Rico, particularly in the Luquillo Experimental Forest, and has contributed to broader topics in island biogeography and conservation biology. Publication Trends: His publications from 1993 to 2014 reveal a consistent focus on Chiroptera, with interdisciplinary methods combining ecology, morphology, acoustics, and statistical modeling. Key themes include the impact of natural disasters on wildlife, host-parasite dynamics, and species distribution patterns. Scientific Contributions: Co-authored influential guidelines for the ethical use of wild mammals in research (Journal of Mammalogy, 2007). Conducted pioneering studies on bat responses to Hurricane Hugo in Puerto Rico. Published on diverse taxa including bats, land snails, marsupials, and phasmids, indicating broad ecological expertise. Advising and Grants: While no formal students or grants are listed in the provided text, his long-standing collaborative research, especially with Michael R. Willig, suggests mentorship and project leadership roles. His work likely involved external funding, particularly for fieldwork in Puerto Rico and Pennsylvania. Labs and Teams: Though no specific lab or research team is named, his repeated collaborations and field-based projects indicate participation in ecological research networks focused on tropical and temperate ecosystems.
Dr. Katherine Brown is an Associate Professor and Associate Head (Students) in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Portsmouth, Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences. She is actively involved in forensic research, particularly in forensic entomology, taphonomy with an aquatic focus, and the application of 3D technologies such as VR, 360 imagery, and 3D printing in forensic science. She is currently accepting PhD students and supervising research in these areas. Her research interests center on the development of Calliphoridae (blowflies), aquatic taphonomy, and innovative forensic methodologies. She employs advanced 3D imaging and printing techniques to reconstruct fragmented skeletal remains and improve postmortem interval estimation. Her work integrates entomological, morphological, and technological approaches to solve complex forensic cases. Dr. Brown has published extensively from 2012 to 2025, with recent articles focusing on pan-European taphonomic infrastructure, the use of blowfly larvae in offender identification, and annual colonization patterns in Southern England. Her publications demonstrate a consistent trend in interdisciplinary forensic science, combining biology, technology, and criminology to advance forensic methodologies and evidence interpretation. She has supervised PhD students including H. McGonigal and A. L. Clarke, and has been involved in multiple research projects and conference presentations. Her work has been featured in exhibitions at The Natural History Museum and has received attention in news outlets and social media, reflecting its public and academic impact. Dr. Brown leads and collaborates on significant projects such as the UK-Netherlands Decomposition Experimental Research (UNDER) Group, aiming to establish a pan-European taphonomic research infrastructure. Her interdisciplinary approach is evident in projects optimizing DNA profiling in sexual offences through user-centered design. She is affiliated with the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice and contributes to academic and public understanding through exhibitions like Locust War and The Locust, The Empire and The Museum , which explore historical and scientific intersections of entomology and colonialism.
Mary Ann McDowell is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Notre Dame, where she leads a research program focused on immunoparasitology and vector biology. Her work integrates cellular and molecular approaches to study infectious and vector-borne diseases, particularly leishmaniasis and malaria. Her research interests center on understanding host-parasite interactions, innate immunity, and signal transduction during Leishmania infection. She also investigates the biology of insect vectors such as sand flies and mosquitoes, with an emphasis on developing novel insecticides and transmission-blocking vaccines. Her lab employs a multidisciplinary approach combining immunology, genomics, biochemistry, and field studies. The recent publications reflect a strong trend in vector genomics, salivary immunology, and drug discovery. Her work spans from fundamental immunological mechanisms in human phagocytes to population genetics of sand flies and high-throughput screening for antiparasitic compounds. This integrative research program bridges basic science and translational applications for disease control. Dr. McDowell has been a Joint-Investigator of the Eukaryotic Pathogen, Vector and Host Informatics Resource (VEuPathDB), contributing to major bioinformatics efforts in parasitology. She previously served as Principal Investigator of VectorBase, the NIH/NIAID Bioinformatics Resource Center for invertebrate vectors. She was trained with a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and completed postdoctoral research at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Her laboratory engages in international collaborations, particularly in the Middle East and Africa, and coordinates genome sequencing projects for sand fly species.
Prof. Dr. Sascha Buchholz is a Professor of Animal Ecology at the Institute of Landscape Ecology, University of Münster, where he leads research in biodiversity dynamics, urban ecology, and conservation biology. His work integrates field studies, citizen science, and interdisciplinary approaches to understand species interactions and ecosystem responses in urban environments. His research interests include urban ecology, biodiversity conservation, invasion ecology, novel ecosystems, and biotic interactions, with a focus on arthropods such as spiders, bees, and carabid beetles. He investigates how urbanization affects species diversity, community structure, and ecological functions, and explores strategies for enhancing urban biodiversity. His recent publications highlight trends in urban biodiversity, pollinator ecology, and the use of citizen science for ecological monitoring. Research themes include habitat suitability modeling, the impacts of artificial light and urban green spaces on wildlife, and the role of urban refugia for endangered species. He frequently publishes in high-impact journals such as Global Change Biology , Scientific Reports , and Urban Ecosystems . Member, Friedrich Ebert Foundation (expert and liaison lecturer since 2011) He has been involved in multiple funded research projects related to biodiversity monitoring in Berlin and agroforestry, supported by organizations such as the Senatsverwaltung für Umwelt Berlin and Vattenfall Wärme Berlin AG. He mentors students and collaborates widely, including with Dr. Nadja Pernat and Dr. Hilke Hollens-Kuhr. His teaching includes courses on animal ecology, biodiversity monitoring, and environmental statistics. He is actively engaged in science communication, exemplified by the podcast 'Irgendwas mit Naturschutz', and promotes inclusive conservation science and public awareness of ecological issues.
Dr. Friederike Gabel is a postdoctoral researcher and lecturer at the Institute of Landscape Ecology, University of Münster, where she leads the LimnoLab and contributes to the Applied Landscape Ecology and Ecological Planning research group on a part-time basis. Her work is deeply rooted in freshwater ecology, with a focus on microplastics, aquatic invertebrates, and anthropogenic disturbances such as ship-induced waves. Position: Postdoc & LimnoLab Leader Institution: Institute of Landscape Ecology, University of Münster Email: gabelf@uni-muenster.de Office: Room 421, Heisenbergstraße 2, 48149 Münster Education: PhD in Landscape Ecology, Humboldt University of Berlin (2007–2012), dissertation at Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries Studies in Landscape Ecology, University of Münster and Ca'Foscari University Venice (2000–2006) Research stays at Radboud University Nijmegen (2014) and University of Konstanz (2007) Her research centers on freshwater ecosystems , particularly the impacts of microplastics , invasive species , and hydrodynamic disturbances on benthic communities. She employs experimental and field-based approaches to study biofilm dynamics, trophic transfer, and ecological resilience. Her work in the BMBF-funded MikroPlaTaS project investigates microplastic retention and effects in reservoirs. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in microplastic ecotoxicology , examining how different polymers affect biofilm quality, ingestion by invertebrates, and transfer through food webs. Additional themes include thermal physiology of invasive crustaceans , restoration ecology , and anthropogenic wave impacts . Her interdisciplinary approach bridges limnology, ecotoxicology, and environmental policy. Scientific Awards: None listed in the provided text. Advising and Grants: Dr. Gabel actively supervises numerous Bachelor’s and Master’s theses, covering topics such as microplastics, pharmaceutical pollution, invasive species, and river restoration. She is involved in the BMBF joint research project MikroPlaTaS, which focuses on microplastic sedimentation, distribution, and ecological effects in reservoirs. She also mentors student assistants like Juliane Baltes, Christian Lieske, and Nina Krumschmidt. Labs and Teams: She leads the LimnoLab at the Institute of Landscape Ecology and is a core member of the Applied Landscape Ecology and Ecological Planning working group. Her team includes PhD student Diana Michler-Kozma and student research assistants. She collaborates widely within the MikroPlaTaS project consortium.
