Journey of an early career entomologist: IPM from India to the United States

I will provide an overview of my research experiences using different IPM tactics, the hurdles and roadblocks I faced, what I learned from these experiences, and how it is helping me shaping my career path. During my Master's, I worked on a project studying the host plant resistance of okra against the Indian cotton jassid (Amrasca biguttula biguttula). Just like many other students worldwide, I was very excited and eager to learn about education in the United States, as well as gain more research experience in IPM. Shortly after my Master's, I joined a Ph.D. program at Montana State University focusing on the biological control of wireworms, a serious soil pest of small grains, using entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs). Now, as postdoctoral researcher, I am continuing to work with EPNs as well as exploring cultural practices such as trap cropping, row covers, and mulching against a new invasive pest, Allium leafminer, Phytomyza gymnostoma in Allium crops. I am continuously learning more about the effectiveness of integration of various IPM practices rather than using one control approach to manage the insect pest populations in agriculture. I look forward to a career in industry or extension where I can help to discovering new methods pest control in agriculture and educate growers about the benefits of an integrated approach to management.