Stephen is a graduate student working toward a PhD in entomology at Kansas State University under the direction of Dr. Brian McCornack (Field Crop Entomologist and Extension Specialist). He received a B.S. degree in Insect Science in 2012 from The University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Stephen also received a M.S. degree from Kansas State University in 2015. Stephen knew he wanted to be an entomologist from day one.
Stephen’s current research focuses on the sampling of soybean aphid, Aphis glycines, population levels in soybean fields that can be implemented into an integrated pest management (IPM) decision using a smartphone/computer program. The goal is to provide real time IPM decisions to soybean growers to increase the effectiveness of needed insecticide applications.
Stephen has enjoyed working with and learning about different insects of agricultural importance as an undergraduate entomology lab worker through to his PhD studies. Stephen plans on continuing to focus his research on ways to save growers more money and increase their profits.