Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology - Ecology, Conservation, Restoration, Climate Change

Expertise in ecology is broadly represented in the Department of Entomology and includes behavioral ecology, chemical and microbial ecology, plant-insect and predator-prey interactions, population and food-web dynamics, and community ecology. Entomology Department faculty also maintain a commitment to the application of ecological theory to biological control, pest management, habitat restoration, and conservation biology. Maryland has a long and rich tradition of biological control involving collaborative projects with federal, state, and county agencies, and with private industry. Active research programs supported by NSF and USDA are ongoing in both natural and managed systems. Current research efforts emphasize the conservation of natural enemies, augmentative releases, and investigations into the basic ecology and behavior of natural enemies. Concerning pest management at large, research projects include the use of transgenic crops, the isolation of bioactive substances from microbial symbionts of insects, and the identification and incorporation of genes from entomopathogenic fungi into plants.

Students applying for graduate work in entomology are expected to have a strong background in the biological or agricultural sciences, chemistry, genetics, and mathematics. An undergraduate degree in entomology is not required, but a strong basic preparation is preferred for admission to the program. Admission is granted on the basis of the following criteria by the Graduate Affairs Committee: Analysis of transcripts, including course selection and GPA; letters of recommendation; statement of purpose; and acceptance by a graduate faculty advisor. Acceptance by an advisor is absolutely required; thus, it helps to make contact with faculty when applying. Upon admission to the MS or PhD program, the student’s study committee suggests a program of coursework and approves a detailed research proposal.