Education & Background:

2019, P.D. Entomology, University of Wisconsin-Madison

2014, M.S. Entomology, University of Wisconsin-Madison

2012, B.S. Entomology, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Research Interests:

I am passionate about managing insect populations on our food crops, and my interests range from specific IPM strategies to evolutionary perspectives on agricultural pests. My MS work has introduced me to the world of host plant resistance and the biology, ecology, and population genetics of a fascinating group of insects, the aphids. For my PhD, I am shifting focus to Colorado potato beetle, specifically the landscape genetics associated with neonicotinoid resistance, and the evolutionary forces that have contributed to CPB’s amazing success in adapting to diverse climates and management strategies over the last 200 years. One of my first entomological experiences involved scouting for Colorado potato beetle, so I can’t help but feel that I have come nearly full-circle during my scientific training here in Wisconsin.

Other details of my research experience can be found on my ResearchGate page: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michael_Crossley?ev=hdr_xprf

Colorado potato beetle larvae (4th instar) in Wisconsin.

Personal Interests:

I love Irish traditional music and play many instruments, but you will most likely see me playing flute, banjo, or uilleann pipes if you ever happen upon me in an Irish pub.

I grew up on the Horicon Marsh, the largest freshwater, cattail marsh in the nation, and can’t wait to canoe its teeming channels again.

I care deeply about the intersection of faith and science, and enjoy following the discussions that flow from the opposing camps of Creationists and Evolutionary Naturalists, and all the camps in between.