Department of Entomology

Title: Entomology and Public Health: A Look at Life inside the Vector-Borne Disease Section, California Department of Public Health.

Abstract: Shortly after completing my Ph.D. in entomology at UCR, I was fortunate to not only be offered a job, but was simultaneously offered a position in academia and at a state agency. The choice was not easy, but past conversations with contacts I had made at both institutions swayed me to walk away from academics to pursue a career at the California Department of Public Health, Vector-Borne Disease Section (VBDS) as a Public Health Biologist.  VBDS is made up of a small number of scientists with diverse backgrounds, many with formal training in entomology.  We are responsible for activities that cover large geographical areas of the state and provide subject matter expertise on diverse topics such as biology and ecology of vector insects, disease ecology, vector surveillance and control, pesticide selection and mode of action, pesticide application and safety, public relations, and laws and regulations.  The priority-driven nature of the job, the variety of responsibilities, like-minded colleagues, and natural beauty of many of the areas we work has kept me interested and motivated for nearly 18 years.

In this presentation, I will give a brief overview of some of the statewide programs within VBDS and how this agency interacts with federal, state, and local government agencies, universities, and the public in California. I will then spend the remaining time sharing the highlights of some of the more significant projects I have led or been closely involved with over the years.