What do you do in your current role with the University of Missouri?

I am an assistant professor and state extension specialist in entomology for forage and field crops. I also coordinate the insect trapping monitoring network in Missouri. My responsibilities include developing and implementing extension and research programs that are focused on insect pest problems of field and forage crops. My research interests include developing and implementing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, exploring how insect pests adapt to agroecosystem practices, and how agroecosystem practices affect insect diversity.

How long have you worked in this position?

I have worked in this position since January 1, 2024.

What is your favorite part about the work you do?

My favorite part of my work is visiting with producers, crop consultants and field specialists to better understand their needs and concerns regarding insect pests and their management strategies. Additionally, I like to interact and learn from colleagues and students with whom I work on projects related to IPM and sustainable crop production.

How are you helping MU A&E Extension reach our #2xAg2030 goal?

I aim to help farmers increase crop production by leveraging sustainable practices and return on investment. In my role, I will use different strategies to connect farmers with new pest management strategies to help them be more efficient and productive.

What is something your CAFNR and MU Extension teammates may not know about you?

My colleagues at CAFNR and Extension may not know that I grew up on a 30-acre farm focused on dairy production.

What is your hometown, place of high school graduation, and degrees/universities?

I am from a small town in Santa Catarina state, southern Brazil. I earned an associate degree in agriculture in 2006. Then, I moved to Rio Grande do Sul State, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Agronomy from the Federal University of Santa Maria. During my bachelor’s, I studied a year abroad at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, focusing on agronomy and entomology. After returning to Brazil, I earned a master’s degree in agronomy from the Federal University of Santa Maria.  In 2018, I returned to Iowa State University to pursue a Ph.D. in Entomology. I graduated in the spring of 2022.