Rebecca Tiffany Trout Fryxell
Specialization: Entomology & Vector Biology
I joined the Entomology and Plant Pathology Department in March 2012 as a Medical and Veterinary Entomologist. I have a broad background in medical and veterinary entomology with specific training in vector control, vector and pathogen surveillance, and vector ecology and genetics. My appointment is 90% research and 10% teaching; so I teach and study what I love: vector-biology and vector-borne diseases. I run my research program as a team, and the team’s mission: to improve human and animal health and welfare by minimizing the negative impacts of arthropods. Our research integrates vector management and control, describes vector life histories, delineates risk factors for pathogen and vectors, and characterizes vector populations using genetics (microbial, population, and landscape). Outcomes from the research program are the clarification of the role(s) of each arthropod in pathogen transmission and determination of underlining factors (from molecule to ecosystem) that contribute to the success of vectors.
I value and respect my diverse team members, and each has contributed significantly to the science and the program. The diversity of disciplines (e.g., entomology, animal science, biochemistry, pre-professional), experiences (e.g., high school, undergraduate, graduate, medical, veterinary medicine, etc.), and backgrounds (e.g., STEM-underrepresented groups) have helped make the research program successful. I also actively recruit people who want to work hard and make a positive impact on society. I am committed to strengthening diversity in science, and I am extremely proud of the students who contribute to the program.
My research focuses on Aedes mosquitoes transmitting La Crosse virus, identifying risk factors and high-risk areas. I also study pathogen transmission of ticks and veterinary flies. and the role in pathogen spread and animal production impact.
I am an advocate for research experiences for students and promote this by integrating my research and teaching programs. I encourage students to participate in research symposiums and participate in a number of STEM education events.
I aim to promote objectivity, creativity, and independence by engaging the students in discussion, encouraging creativity and hypothesis testing, and guiding them in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- What changes occur when a vector and/or pathogen invades a new habitat?
- What are the risk factors associated with vector life histories and the presence (or absence) of a pathogen?
- What are the important variables associated with vector competence and vector-borne diseases?
- How can we prevent vector encounters to prevent vector-borne diseases?
- How do vectors adapt to new environments?
2505 E J Chapman Drive
Knoxville, TN 37996
- Doctorate, Entomology, University Of Arkansas, 2010
Rebecca Tiffany Trout Fryxell
2505 E J Chapman Drive
Knoxville, TN 37996
- Doctorate, Entomology, University Of Arkansas, 2010
I joined the Entomology and Plant Pathology Department in March 2012 as a Medical and Veterinary Entomologist. I have a broad background in medical and veterinary entomology with specific training in vector control, vector and pathogen surveillance, and vector ecology and genetics. My appointment is 90% research and 10% teaching; so I teach and study what I love: vector-biology and vector-borne diseases. I run my research program as a team, and the team’s mission: to improve human and animal health and welfare by minimizing the negative impacts of arthropods. Our research integrates vector management and control, describes vector life histories, delineates risk factors for pathogen and vectors, and characterizes vector populations using genetics (microbial, population, and landscape). Outcomes from the research program are the clarification of the role(s) of each arthropod in pathogen transmission and determination of underlining factors (from molecule to ecosystem) that contribute to the success of vectors.
I value and respect my diverse team members, and each has contributed significantly to the science and the program. The diversity of disciplines (e.g., entomology, animal science, biochemistry, pre-professional), experiences (e.g., high school, undergraduate, graduate, medical, veterinary medicine, etc.), and backgrounds (e.g., STEM-underrepresented groups) have helped make the research program successful. I also actively recruit people who want to work hard and make a positive impact on society. I am committed to strengthening diversity in science, and I am extremely proud of the students who contribute to the program.
My research focuses on Aedes mosquitoes transmitting La Crosse virus, identifying risk factors and high-risk areas. I also study pathogen transmission of ticks and veterinary flies. and the role in pathogen spread and animal production impact.
I am an advocate for research experiences for students and promote this by integrating my research and teaching programs. I encourage students to participate in research symposiums and participate in a number of STEM education events.
I aim to promote objectivity, creativity, and independence by engaging the students in discussion, encouraging creativity and hypothesis testing, and guiding them in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- What changes occur when a vector and/or pathogen invades a new habitat?
- What are the risk factors associated with vector life histories and the presence (or absence) of a pathogen?
- What are the important variables associated with vector competence and vector-borne diseases?
- How can we prevent vector encounters to prevent vector-borne diseases?
- How do vectors adapt to new environments?