Name: Carrie Preston

Degree: Ph.D. in Entomology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Hometown:  Dansville, NY

Research Summary: Preston’s dissertation focused on determining the effects of biological control agents, the fungus beetle and silver fly, on the invasive insect, the hemlock woolly adelgid, which can kill an eastern hemlock tree within four years. 

“Results from my research could be used to improve management strategies of hemlock woolly adelgid and enhance our understanding of classical biological control of hemlock woolly adelgid and what it means to be a successful biological control agent. Classical biological control is not as simple as releasing natural enemies into the environment in hopes that target pest populations will be controlled, and from my research we get a preview of its complexity and what challenges may be faced in this field. 

VT Education Experience: I heard great things about the entomology department at Virginia Tech, and, when I met my now adviser at a seminar at Cornell University, I knew that I had to try to get in. What I appreciated most about my education is the support I got from the entomology department as well as from my committee. Graduate school is hard and without my support system it would have really been a struggle. There isn't anyone in particular that I am thankful for. It was a group effort that helped me achieve my degree. In particular I am grateful for the department head Dr. Kring and everyone in the forest entomology lab, including Carrie Jubb, Aryanna James, Olivia Andrews, Jeremiah Foley, Ryan Mays, Barry Keith, and John Peterson. I'm also thankful for my committee, who all provided me with their support and helped shape me into the entomologist I am today. 

Research Inspiration and Rewards: My research is inspired by the beautiful field sites I get to visit. After visiting these unique locations I understand what would be lost if nothing was done to control invasive species such as hemlock woolly adelgid. I find myself more eager to get out of bed when it's a day out into the field.