My current research interests involve the study of plant-insect interactions at the tree and landscape scale. My project evaluates the possible effects of genetic modification on hybrid poplar pest susceptibility. These modifications aim to improve the biofuel potential of hybrid poplar but it is unknown how pest defense compounds may be affected. To address this question I have employed the following:

1. •Analysis of leaf chemistry
   

2. •Insect bioassays to assess effects to pest fitness
   

3. •Measurement of herbivory levels
   

4. •Surveys of arthropod community composition to assess effects to biodiversity
   

This project is a collaborative effort with researchers at Purdue University and Oregon State University and is funded by a USDA Hatch grant.