An entomologist briefcase for an impactful career in the discovery and development of crop protection technologies

During the past several decades fundamental shifts in the nature of the crop protection
industry have occurred evolving from a strict focus on agrochemicals to an expanding
range of approaches and tools. There are four important trends affecting entomology
careers: 1) ongoing industry consolidation, 2) biologics as an adjunct to agrochemicals,
3) climate change and 4) increased automation. A strong background in entomology
remains important, especially for field testing of potential insect control agents and to
implement new insect screens as new economic and societal needs change.
Knowledge of toxicology, microbiology, plant sciences, biochemistry, molecular biology,
chemistry, software applications/statistics, and/or robotics can also be beneficial, enabling the entomologist to play a role in creation of new control agents, and to solve issues in spectrum, efficacy, mode of action determination, bioavailability, targeted delivery and resistance. Being creative and adaptable to change with good teamwork and communication skills are highly valued attributes