WHAT DO INSECT SCIENTIST DO

Entomologist

Entomologists study the classification, biodiversity, life cycles and ecology of insects and other arthropods, and plan and implement surveys and pest management programs. Entomologists usually specialize in particular fields of study such as applied agriculture and forest entomology, apiculture (bee culture), classification and evolution, insect ecology, insect physiology or insecticide toxicology. They often work with other scientists on joint projects such as developing crops resistant to insects, or containing animal and plant diseases caused by arthropods transmitting infectious organisms (for example, mosquitoes spreading West Nile Virus, bark beetles spreading Dutch elm disease fungus, ticks carrying bacteria that cause Lyme disease).

Also Known As:

Biological Scientist, Insect Biologist, Invertebrate Biologist, Research Scientist

Personal Characteristics

Entomologists need the following characteristics:

• A keen interest in invertebrate biology
• The intellect, curiosity, creativity, patience and perseverance required to pursue answers To complex research questions
• The ability to work well independently and as part of a team
• The ability to communicate effectively with their colleagues and the general public.

Duties and responsibilities vary from one position to another but, in general, entomologists:

• Study insect physiology, distribution and habitat, and recommend methods of preventing the importation and spread of harmful insects
• Investigate and evaluate the role of insect pests in forests, agriculture, human health and the environment
• Study the evolution of insects and classify them using taxonomic, molecular and other techniques
• Discover and describe new species of insects
• Monitor insect biodiversity as part of ongoing efforts to preserve ecological integrity in natural landscapes
• Conduct research into the impact and control of insect pest problems
• Develop biological methods of controlling harmful insects (for example, using pathogens, predators, parasites or genetic methods) and implement pest management programs
• Develop methods of controlling weeds with herbivorous insects and mites 
• conduct field and laboratory tests of pesticides to evaluate their effect on different species of insects under different conditions
• Preserve and maintain museum collections
• Prepare and provide information to help the public identify insects and other arthropods
• Co-ordinate public awareness and education programs.

They should enjoy synthesizing information, conducting research, preparing reports, performing tasks requiring precision and supervising research projects.