Insects and parasites have had an enormous impact on the environment, human health and world economies for many centuries. Research in our School is strongly focused on the study of insects as model organisms to enhance fundamental understanding in their ecology, evolution, behaviour, structure and neurobiology. New ways of controlling pests could emerge from our studies of innate immune responses and host-parasite interactions.

Research within this theme also seeks to understand the biology of insects such as mosquitoes that carry diseases. Our research responds to the immediate needs of Australian rural industries in the areas of plant protection and in the development of informed, alternative pest control strategies. Current research themes within Entomology include systematics, ecology and pest management, behaviour, physiology, morphology and development, insect-virus interactions, and medical entomology. Insect systematics is supported by The University of Queensland Insect Collection, a research collection of about one million specimens.