Biography

Deanna graduated with a PhD in Environmental Life Sciences (ELS) in 2023. They came to the lab from Illinois where they obtained their MS in zoology studying phylogenetic relationships in insects. Prior to that, they obtained their BS in biology from Union College, New York, where they studied grasshopper respiratory physiology. Deanna's dissertation research focused on the interplay of nutritional physiology and biopesticides on grasshopper survival, performance, and intake targets. Deanna's research aimed to develop management strategies, that are more effective when used for outbreak treatments. A secondary aspect of Deanna's dissertation research was to assess the efficacy of nontraditional management strategies through meta-analyses and assess stakeholder knowledge and perceptions of these strategies, to understand how their work will impact stakeholders. In June 2021, Deanna was recruited to the USDA, Forest Service in Hamden, Connecticut where they are working as a geneticist.

Education

• PhD, Environmental Life Sciences, Arizona State University, 2023
• MS, Zoology, Southern Illinois University
• BS, Biology, Union College