Ronald D. Weeks, Jr.

Graduate Research Assistant

Mailing Address:

Phone & Fax:

E-mail:

Education:

A Portrait of an American Entomologist: Thomas Say , 1996, Oral presentation. Department of Bioagricultural Sciences and Pest Management, Seminar Series.

My field of interest is in entomology. I am interested in the ecology of insects and their close relatives. The importance of insects as pests is well known. Yet, there remains the need for more information on the specific biotic and abiotic factors that promote, maintain or prevent insect pest populations. My views of insects are from an ecologist's perspective. I want to know how insects relate and interact with their environment. I am interested in how climate, landscape structure and land use patterns affects habitat selection, spatial dynamics, biodiversity and genetics of arthropods. The objectives of my educational program are to develop advanced skills in quantitative ecology, simulation modeling, population genetics, applied statistics and insect pest management.

My professional career objectives include a mix of both entomological research and academic teaching. Through my research interests and training, I hope to improve and develop new land use technologies to help better manage insect pests and to enhance and conserve beneficial species. I would like to publish several books describing the natural history, biology and ecology of some important insects and natural areas. I want to become an educator because I enjoy sharing information with people. I have been fortunate to experience some excellent teachers in my academic life. These few people have inspired and amazed me with their knowledge, vitality and willingness to educate. My long-term goals are to positively impact my field of choice and live to be a ripe old age.

I was born in Twin Falls, Idaho and grew-up in Elko, Nevada. I graduated from Elko High School in 1982. While growing up in Elko I enjoyed motorcycle riding, camping and fishing. In 1985, I moved to Reno, Nevada to work and maybe "take some classes." I discovered Reno was great. It provided easy access to both snow and water skiing, golfing, and Lake Tahoe. I met my beautiful wife (Lisa) there and we were married in 1989. In 1993, I graduated from the University of Nevada - Reno with a B. S. in Biology. Shortly after graduation, Lisa and I moved to Fort Collins, Colorado to work and maybe "check into grad school." While living in Fort Collins, Lisa and I were blessed by the birth of our son, Anthony. He was born in 1996 and has kept us happily on our toes ever since. As for grad school, I was admitted to a M. S. program in Entomology the Fall of 1995 and completed that program Fall of 1997. Currently, I am pursuing a Ph.D. in Entomology at Texas A&M University (College Station) were I am studying the biology and spatial dynamics of the red imported fire ant. Some of my favorite activities include family fun, hiking, camping and fishing.