Dara G. Stockton

I am currently a postdoctoral researcher at Cornell AgriTech, where I primarily conduct integrated pest management research on Drosophila suzukii, an invasive fruit pest currently responsible for significant economic losses in small fruit crops. I graduated with my PhD in entomology in 2017 from the University of Florida, where I studied the behavioral ecology of the invasive phytopathogen vector, Diaphorina citri in conventional Citrus and ornamental Murraya. During my postdoctoral research appointment I have focused on the chemical ecology, overwintering biology, and applied pest management of spotted wing drosophila in the context of small fruit agriculture. Broadly, I’m interested in the impact of learning on the behavioral ecology and evolutionary biology of invasive arthropods, specifically in the areas of learned mate choice and induced host preference. However, my research often incorporates movement biology, population dynamics, multi-trophic and community interactions, and evolutionary co-adaptation. I support innovative integrated pest management solutions, and have a strong interest in the improved use of biocontrol using predatory mites and entomopathogenic nematodes, biopesticides, and genetic control of insect populations. I aim to take basic research and transform it into applied solutions by continuously developing economically feasible pest management tools and preparing extension materials targeting growers addressing regionally specific challenges.

January 2019