Dr. Jess Kansman (she/her)
​
Assistant Professor (Lab PI)
Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology
Montana State University
​
Interested in trophic interactions, climate change effects on agricultural productivity, and all things entomology. When I'm not at work, I love cooking challenging meals (finding the perfect saag paneer will be the death of me), compulsively listening to audiobooks or reading (libraries are radical), and road tripping with my partner to natural areas and national parks for hikes and kayaking. I'm currently attempting to learn how to cross-country ski. It is not going well.
​
​
Email: jessica.kansman [at] montana.edu
​
Kaelin Smith (co-advised by Tiziana Oppedisano)
MS Student
Entomology
​
I am interested in understanding plant-insect interactions and using that knowledge to improve sustainable pest management tactics in agriculture. In my free time, I like to run long distances, tend to my houseplants, and play with my cat, Miso.
​
​
Email: kaelin.smith1 [at] student.montana.edu
​
Abigail Noel
MS Student
Entomology
​
I am interested in all things insect ecology, with a special interest in predator-prey relationships and plant-insect interactions. I am currently investigating how drought affects the trophic interactions of wheat, aphids, and parasitoid wasps. Outside of the lab, I enjoy hiking, reading, thrifting, and learning new plants and insects! Currently doing my best not to trip people on the trails every time I see a new bug.
​
Email: abigail.noel [at] student.montana.edu
​
.jpg)
Ayax Del Valle Sanchez
MS Student
Entomology
​
I’m passionate about natural science and helping to solve problems. That’s the reason why I enjoy working on agroecology. Currently, the focus of my work is on how aphid’s natural enemies can be affected by intraguild predation and non-consumptive effects. I’m also a multi-faceted person who likes mechanics, music, martial arts, drawing, and many other things.
​
Email: ayaxdelvalle [at] montana.edu
​
.png)
Natalie Brennan
PhD Student
Plant Sciences
​
As an entomologist and naturalist, I am just generally passionate about watching insects do what they do. Because of this, I am on the never-ending quest to understand how insects interact with each other, with other organisms, and with their environment. My research interests include behavioral ecology, multi-trophic interactions, and chemical ecology, all the more fun within an applied system. Currently, I am researching the aphid-mediated spread of PVY in seed potato and utilizing behavioral-based management techniques to reduce the spread of both aphids and the virus. Outside of research, I can be found enjoying a nice hike, indulging in the creation and consumption of good eats, listening to or making music, and spending time with my friends and family.
​
Email: nataliebrennan [at] montana.edu
​
Karli Gowen
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Grower of plants, Caretaker of bugs
​
Loves learning anything about plant and animal interactions. In my free time I like to ski, hike, read, and bake! I also enjoy traveling and hope to explore new countries this year! I’m currently studying conservation biology and ecology as an undergraduate.
​
​
Email: karli.gowen [at] student.montana.edu
​
Hodor
Life-Long Learner: The Ecology of Fear
Sadie
Life-Long Learner: Top-Down Effects
Lab Alumni
Dr. Erika Rodbell (she/her)
Current Role: Forage Research Agronomist at Forage Genetics International
​​
Agronomic Entomology Associate Specialist
Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology
Montana State University - Extension
​
I am interested in applied research pertaining to finding answers to entomological questions and concerns directly impacting Montana agricultural producers. When I am not working, I can be found backpacking, hiking, rock climbing, painting, or skiing (alpine or cross-country) with my partner and pup. I am attempting to get into ice climbing, but I found out last winter that it is an extremely cold sport.​​
​
​​