About me
I am an insect biologist. My research focuses are on insect chemical ecology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biological control and functional genomics to improve our understanding of insect behaviors, insect-host interaction and evolution.
1. Insect Chemical Ecology
Insects play a critical role in various ecosystems and their chemical sensory systems are essential for their survival and behavior. By understanding the molecular basis of these systems, we can shed light on how insects have evolved to sense and respond to their environment, which can have significant implications for fields such as agriculture and pest control. Furthermore, research on insect chemosensory mechanisms can help us develop new strategies for controlling insect populations, which is crucial for food security and ecosystem health. By disrupting the chemical sensory systems of pests, we can potentially reduce their impact on crops and ecosystems while minimizing the use of harmful pesticides.
2. Mosquito olfaction
Mosquitoes display preferences for certain hosts over others, which is primarily determined by volatile chemicals produced by hosts. This project aims to further identify and functionally investigate mosquito smell receptors, which are critical in detecting these host volatile compounds and regulating mosquito host-seeking behaviours. Expected outcomes of this project are an enhanced understanding of mosquito smell system and behaviours. This could provide significant benefits to how we can fight mosquitoes and mosquito-transmitted diseases in a more efficient and environmentally way.
3. Insect pest biological control
Insect biological control is a method of pest management that uses natural enemies such as predators, parasitoids, and pathogens to control pest populations. This method is based on the principle of reducing pest populations to levels that are not economically or environmentally harmful. Insect biological control has several advantages over traditional pest control methods, such as reducing the use of harmful pesticides, minimizing non-target effects, and promoting natural pest control mechanisms. One example of insect biological control is the use of parasitoids, which are insects that lay their eggs in or on the bodies of other insects, eventually killing them. Parasitoids are often highly specific to certain pest species and can be very effective in controlling pest populations. Another example is the use of predators, such as ladybirds, lacewings, and predatory mites, which feed on pest insects. Insect biological control can also be used in combination with other pest management methods, such as crop rotation, cultural practices, and chemical control, to achieve greater control efficacy.
4.Invasive biology
The projects focus on the biology and genomics of invasive pest species, with a particular emphasis on understanding the mechanisms that underpin their spread, adaptation, and impact on agricultural ecosystems. By integrating classical biological studies with cutting-edge genomic approaches, We aim to uncover the genetic basis of key traits such as host preference, environmental tolerance, and resistance to control measures. This research not only advances fundamental knowledge of invasive pest biology but also supports the development of more effective, sustainable management strategies. Through collaborations with national and international partners, Our work bridges basic science and applied outcomes, contributing to improved biosecurity and crop protection in Western Australia and beyond.
5.Crop resistance to pest
Our research explores the molecular mechanisms underlying crop resistance to insect pests, aiming to elucidate how plants detect, respond to, and defend against herbivorous threats at the genetic and biochemical levels. By combining transcriptomic, proteomic, and functional genomics approaches, We investigate key resistance pathways—such as receptor-mediated recognition, signal transduction networks, and the production of defensive metabolites—that contribute to durable pest resistance. This work enhances our understanding of host–pest interactions and identifies novel molecular targets for breeding or engineering insect-resilient crop varieties. Ultimately, our research contributes to sustainable agricultural systems by informing the development of crops that can withstand pest pressures with reduced reliance on chemical pesticides.