Biotechnology and Entomology Staffing: Does Your Department Need an Insect Molecular Biologist?

In preparing for this talk I recalled preparing for similar talks regarding pest management 15years ago. Yes, there was a time when we talked about whether a department should staff up for integrated pest management (IPM) or if it would be a passing fad. Although the term IPM may be overused and need replacing, the concept is here to stay and is an integral part of, perhaps the core of, our entomological programs. I could say the same about biotechnology: The term may be overused and need replacing, but what it represents is here to stay-and the sooner we recognize that the better. Further, both IPM and biotechnology involve the application of biological knowledge in an interdisciplinary fashion