New Entomologist Joins Plant Sciences

Published: May 9, 2018

Welcome Kevin Rice as the new MU Extension entomologist. Kevin received a bachelor's degree in biology from the University of North Carolina at Asheville and a master's degree from Auburn University. At Auburn, he studied the effects of red imported fire ants on native arthropod assemblages in natural systems. After graduating from Auburn University, he received a temporary position at the USDA-ARS lab in Maricopa, Ariz. and investigated pest and predator movement in field crops. Rice served as an area extension agent with the University of Arizona shortly there after, working closely with field crop growers and industry stakeholders. Kevin then moved to Ohio State University, where he completed his doctorate degree in entomology. His dissertation examined the effects of invasive emerald ash borer on a native plant species chemical defense, growth and reproductive allocation. This affected the development and survival of native swallowtails consuming these host plants. His post-doctoral work at Penn State and the USDA-ARS focused on economic damage created by invasive herbivores in field, vegetable and orchard crops. You can reach Kevin at RiceKev@missouri.edu, 573-882-2838