My research interests related to this project include understanding biological, ecological, and genetic factors that influence vector-virus interactions involved with the transmission of plant viruses.  This includes understanding the genetics of vector competency, how insect vectors influence evolution of the viruses they transmit, and the influence of vector-virus dynamics on transmission efficiency and disease severity. I received my B.S. in Agricultural Biology from New Mexico State University, my M.Sc. degree in Entomology from Purdue University, and my Ph.D. degree in Entomology from North Carolina State University.  In 2014 I joined the faculty at Auburn University.