chemical ecology | College of Biological Sciences

The Repellence Cocktail: Mosquito Sense of Smell Reveals More Mysteries

While we know certain plant-derived compounds act as insect repellents, much of the molecular science behind insect olfaction remains a mystery. In a study published in iScience, UC Davis researchers exposed further layers of complexity in the mosquito olfactory system.

Human and Animal Health

Discovering Curiosity: The Buggy Scent of Desire with Distinguished Professor Walter Leal

To inform pest management techniques and fight threats like Citrus Greening disease, Walter Leal and his colleagues use reverse chemical ecology to identify sex pheromones in insects. From Brazil to Japan to Davis, Calif., Leal's research path has been unique.

Ecology and Environment

Ian Haydon, ’12 B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Communications Manager at the Institute for Protein Design

Ian Haydon’s entrance into science writing occurred in whirlwind fashion. As a graduate student, he was intent on obtaining a Ph.D. but also knew he was more interested in careers outside of academic research. He then found science writing.

Human and Animal Health

The Scent of a Mate: Seabird Study Provides Insights into Sexual Selection

A new study appearing in Molecular Ecology delves into the sexual selection behaviors of Leach's storm-petrels, a seabird that may be able to sniff out a suitable mate.

Ecology and Environment