Insects influence our lives in innumerable positive ways, such as pollination, decomposition of organic matter, and food chain links for other animals. Insects can also be dangerous and even deadly to humans. This has been brought to the forefront with the spread of the Zika and West Nile viruses by mosquitoes.
Dr. Michael Strand will talk about the diverse and fascinating biology of insects in the order Diptera, which are commonly referred to as flies. While some flies like mosquitoes can adversely affect humans, many others are beneficial to our planet.
Michael R. Strand, PhD., is H.M. Pulliam Chair, Department of Entomology, at the University of Georgia, where he has been a professor since 2001. Prior to moving to Georgia he was a Professor of Entomology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison for 14 years.
Dr. Strand’s research laboratory features a team of researchers with various backgrounds who investigate many areas under the broad umbrella of Insect Physiology. Results of the team’s findings are published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and shared via presentations at scientific meetings and seminars around the world.
