Husker entomologist receives early career innovation award

August 28, 2019

Lincoln, Neb. — Joe Louis, associate professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln has received an Early Career Innovation Award from the Entomological Society of America.

The Early Career Innovation Award honors young professionals working within the field of entomology who have demonstrated innovation through contributions within areas of specialization such as, research, teaching or extension.

“I am extremely honored to receive this award from the Entomological Society of America,” Louis said. “This community of entomologists means a great deal to me and I credit much of my professional growth to my involvement in ESA.” Louis praised the excellent work of current and past members of his lab who helped him to receive this prestigious recognition, and his colleagues who nominated him for the award. Louis is the first Husker to receive this award since its inception in 2008.

Louis’ research interests are to identify the key components/genes/signaling mechanisms that are involved in modulating plant defenses upon insect herbivory and to understand the mechanisms by which insect salivary proteins/effectors alter the plant defense responses. His research has been featured in over 35 publications in several top-ranked plant science, entomological and interdisciplinary science journals.

In addition to his research, Louis is involved in multiple education and outreach projects focused on student populations underrepresented in science. He also teaches two graduate level courses at Nebraska.

Louis received his bachelor’s degree in agriculture from Kerala Agricultural University in India, his master’s degree in entomology from Kansas State University, and a doctorate in molecular biology from the University of North Texas. He did his postdoctoral training at Penn State University.

Louis will be presented the award during ESA’s annual meeting Nov. 17-20, 2019 in St. Louis. He will receive an inscribed plaque and a monetary award.

The Entomological Society of America is the largest organization in the world serving the professional and scientific needs of entomologists and individuals in related disciplines. Founded in 1889, ESA has more than 7,000 members affiliated with educational institutions, health agencies, private industry and government.