Research instilled in me a passion for exploration and Science. I believe that Science is FUN and that the scientific method can be applied to our daily lives. My research interests are connected to insects, how they behave, how they interact with plants and how we can find a way to protect crops from them. Only 1-3 % of all insect species (more than 1 million described) are considered pests. As part of my studies and work experience, I worked for developing technologies to lower insect pest population levels below economic thresholds.
My research falls under the fields of Agriculture and Environment Science with a focus on Applied Entomology. I have experience in developing cold storage technologies for use in insect mass rearing programs, in-vitro rearing techniques for entomophagous insects, and quality control protocols. I am interested in developing innovative control strategies that are environmentally friendly, especially through the use of Integrated Pest Management. I enjoy working on spatial ecology of insect pests and developing in-field monitoring systems.
One of my favourites quotes: "Although man's sway is dominant in all parts of the Earth, there is considerable evidence that insects are the most characteristic form of life of the present age".