Ollie Vetrovec the Nault Lab’s 2022 Summer Scholar visiting from Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio!
Ollie’s summer research project involves investigating the effectiveness of three entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs): Steinernema feltii, S. carpocapsae, and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora as biocontrol agents of Colorado potato beetle larvae (CPB) (Leptinotarsa decemlineata). During the 8-week program, Ollie is conducting two research projects under the direction of Dr. Pin-Chu Lai, a postdoc in the Nault Lab. Melody’s projects include 1) a dose-response bioassay to assess the virulence of these EPNs for large CPB larvae and 2) a soil bioassay to evaluate the persistence of EPN combinations against CPB larvae with different periods of establishment in the soil.
When they are not conducting research, Ollie’s favorite pastimes include: hiking in the great outdoors, foraging for berries and flowers to make jams (how cool!), hanging out with their cat, and collecting insects. Welcome Ollie!