Lincoln, Neb. —
What is your background before coming to the University of Nebraska Lincoln?
I have two degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, so I have been with UNL for quite a while. I graduated with my bachelor's degree in insect science in 2015. During my junior year as an undergraduate student, I worked as a student worker in the Entomology Department and have been with the department since then. After my bachelor’s degree, I got my Master’s in entomology and graduated in 2018.
What is your position at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
I am the research project coordinator for the insect field ecology lab in the Department of Entomology. I help coordinate many of the research projects we have going on in the lab, most of them working with a new soybean pest known as soybean gall midge.
What drew you to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
After my Master’s program, there was an opportunity to join the entomology departmental staff, and I immediately jumped at the chance. Both the people in the department and the quality of research that is conducted were very enticing in my decision to stay with UNL. My wife and I also really love our life in Lincoln so the opportunity to stay was an easy decision.
What aspect of working in an educational setting do you enjoy the most?
I get to teach others how to conduct research, and I am grateful that I can contribute to their learning while they are part of our lab. I really enjoy being able to help an individual with their professional development and seeing where their career takes them.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I would say my greatest achievement was completing my master’s degree in entomology. Another notable achievement would be passing the part 107 exam for my commercial drone license which allowed me to become a certified remote pilot. Additionally, I’m currently self-teaching myself how to do basic 3D modeling for a 3D printer.
What is something that most people don’t know about you?
I have a great passion for reptiles. I am always on the lookout for snakes and enjoy capturing photos if I can. I have also had a few snakes as pets and hope to grow my reptile collection in the future.
What is your life like outside of work?
My wife and I love to watch movies and TV shows and play board games. Playing video games has also been a big part of my life, so I really enjoy doing that in my free time. I also have two cats that I love to play and cuddle with.