Speaker
Dr. Joseph Spencer
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
I am an entomologist with broad interests in insect behavior and ecology. My primary research focuses on the behavioral, physiological, and ecological mechanisms underlying western corn rootworm (WCR) resistance to crop rotation and Bt corn hybrids. I study the movement and dispersal of WCR beetles within and between cornfields and rotated crops/ refuges. I have keen interest in WCR resistance to Bt corn, resistance bioassays, WCR movement and mating in Bt-corn, egglaying and the role of WCR behavior in Insect Resistance Management (IRM). I am also involved with a variety of studies related to species in tallgrass prairies. I enjoy applying my macro-photography and observational skills to enhance my research and extension activities.