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Entomology

Department of Entomology

CFAES

Insect Population Genetics and Adaptation Lab

In the Michel Lab, we focus on genetic variation and mechanisms that allow to interact with their environment.  This research includes searching for genes under natural selection to enhance adaptation of insect pests—particularly to agricultural crops—as well as estimating genetic diversity and structure that suggest the decline of important insect species.  Our research methods range across scales, from molecular to ecosystems, and include genome sequencing, gene expression, molecular marker analysis, and migration and gene flow estimation across a species distribution.  Currently, we work with the invasive soybean aphid (Aphis glycines), the diamond back moth (Plutella xylostella), and various native lady beetle species.