I am a strong proponent of biological control. Biological agents such as predators, parasitoids and pathogens have been successful in controlling arthropod pests in several agro eco-systems. However, concerns about the efficiency and cost-effectiveness have stalled the adoption of biological control. Therefore, increasing natural enemy efficiency is high priority to researchers.

I am interested in studying how specific predator-foraging traits affect predator-prey (pest) population dynamics and hence, predict biological control based on behavior.

Recipient of the R.C. Smith Award, 2008

Recipient of the O.W. "Spide" Morris Graduate Student Service Award, 2007

Recipient of the Don C. Warren Genetics Scholarship Award, 2005 and 2006