News

Mining for knowledge: Scientists identify bee that can aid black cherry recovery

A ground-nesting bee family — commonly known as miner bees — could play a heightened role in rebuilding black cherry populations in Pennsylvania and beyond, according to Penn State entomologists who investigated pollinators’ contributions to the valuable hardwood species.

Entomologists to study how climate change may influence pollinator stressors

A Penn State-led team of researchers will use a newly awarded $682,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture to examine how climate change may influence and interact with various stressors that affect the health of pollinators.

Upcoming workshop series on using data science for ecological applications

Contact Drs. Sarah Goslee and Bogdan Caradima if you have questions, or would like to sign up!

IBC-affiliated mentors solicited for summer student internships

Eric Crandall (Assistant Research Professor, Biology) is seeking faculty mentors to increase diversity in STEM and at PSU for the summer PhD Bridge program for 2022.

Popular perennial flowering plants can attract diverse mix of pollinators

Popular species of perennial flowering plants vary widely in their attractiveness to pollinators, but homeowners and landscape managers who select certain perennial cultivars can support a diverse community of pollinators in their own backyards, according to a new study from a team of Penn State researchers.

Scientists uncover the genetic pathway that colors bumble bee stripes

While most people in the U.S. may think of bumble bees as the standard yellow and black variety, there are an estimated 260 bee species that sport about 400 different color patterns. One reason many people associate bumble bees with distinct colors is because evolution can influence multiple bee species to share similar color patterns in specific geographic regions, which scientists call mimicry.

Past Winners and Current Contenders: IBC Fellows Compete in Nittany AI Challenge

Two IBC graduate student fellows, Edward Kwadwo Amoah and Codey Mathis, will be sharing their research in upcoming AI for Good Expo!

National society to recognize two Penn State entomologists

Two entomologists in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences will receive prestigious awards from the Entomological Society of America during its 2021 annual meeting.

Penn State centers collaborate on pollinator education project

A recently awarded USDA grant will allow CPR researchers and Center for Science and the Schools partners to partner with elementary school teachers in Pennsylvania to develop cross-disciplinary curricula that support students in understanding pollinator research in the areas of food, agriculture and natural resources.

Introducing our new Insect Biodiversity Center Education Specialist!

The IBC is expanding! Please join us in welcoming our newest member, Heather Desorcie, who will be linking IBC outreach efforts with the arboretum and other nature learning centers across Centre County.