I joined the Entomology and Plant Pathology Department in June 2023. Prior to joining UT, I was a post-doctoral research associate at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, University of Florida. Under the supervision of Dr. Sriyanka Lahiri, my research focused on developing integrated pest management strategies for thrips pests of strawberry. My applied research involved manipulation of available management strategies including cultural control, biological control, and chemical control to suppress Chilli thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalisHood) and Twospotted spider mites (Tetranychus urticae Koch) populations in conventional and organic strawberry fields. Besides research responsibilities, I have utilized opportunities to foster my skills in extension through face-to-face interaction with growers, field visits, extension meetings, presentation, and publications. Additionally, I was engaged in mentoring of graduate students and student interns in setting up projects, manuscript preparation, and professional development and served as a journal peer reviewer.

I received my Ph.D. at the University of Georgia under the guidance of Dr. Shimat V Joseph in the Department of Entomology. My doctoral research involved developing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies for hunting billbugs in the turfgrass production (sod) farms of central Georgia. My initial research goals were to record the major billbug species, their seasonal occurrence, abundance, and movement activity in the turfgrass. Later, my research focused on determining the influence of abiotic factors on the movement of hunting billbugs under field, semi-field, lab conditions and the spatial distribution of hunting billbugs. Ultimately, the aim was to improve the sampling plan and develop an IPM strategy for hunting billbugs problem in sod farms. Additionally, I have conducted a survey to determine the major turfgrass pests and current management practices adopted by golf course superintendents and sod producers.

From my experience in UF IFAS, and before that in Georgia, I believe that identifying specific needs from the grower is critical in developing a successful program. Through my doctoral and postdoctoral programs, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with entomologists, horticulturists, sod producers, golf course superintendents, strawberry growers, and industries. I believe these experiences will be valuable in developing insect management programs, and I hope to utilize my skills and expertise as an extension entomologist serving the needs of the nursery, ornamentals and turfgrass industries in Tennessee.