I am Reader in Entomology at Harper Adams University. I teach on postgraduate courses in entomology and integrated pest management (IPM) and have research interests in IPM in arable as well as horticultural crops. The focus of my research is on biopesticides and precision crop protection and have pioneered the use of radio frequency identification tags to track the movement of grey field slugs in crop environments. Other research includes work to develop integrated plant protection strategies… Show more I am Reader in Entomology at Harper Adams University. I teach on postgraduate courses in entomology and integrated pest management (IPM) and have research interests in IPM in arable as well as horticultural crops. The focus of my research is on biopesticides and precision crop protection and have pioneered the use of radio frequency identification tags to track the movement of grey field slugs in crop environments. Other research includes work to develop integrated plant protection strategies in ornamentals where the focus is the control of vine weevil and in strawberry where the focus is on control of potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) and the performance of aphid parasitoids at low and fluctuating temperatures. Show less

I work as a senior lecturer in entomology as well as working on a range of research projects seeking to improve control of insect pests of horticultural and arable crops.

I work as a lecturer in entomology as well as working on a range of research projects seeking to improve control of insect pests of horticultural and arable crops.

I worked on a range of research projects related to integrated pest management (IPM) of horticultural pests. Current research includes: 1. Improved control of aphid pests of protected herbs through the use of aphid parasitoids2. Exploiting and recording behaviour of adult vine weevils to control this pest3. Recording levels of hyperparasitism in a range of horticultural crops where aphid parasitoids are regularly released

Worked on a BBSRC funded project investigating whether organically grown plants are better defended against insect herbivores than conventionally grown plants. This hypothesis was tested by growing plants using different fertilisers under laboratory and field conditions and recording insect behavioural responses.

Investigated plant-herbivore-natural enemy interactions using transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana plants. The responses of generalist and specialist herbivores as well as natural enemies to plants with altered glucosinolate and volatile profiles were studied.

Worked on several research projects, including development of semiochemical based monitoring/control of apple pests, including Dysaphis plantaginea.