Penn State researcher wins Entomological Society of America award

Penn State researcher wins Entomological Society of America award

University Park, Pa. -- Consuelo M. De Moraes, associate professor of entomology, Penn State, is the first recipient of the Early Career Innovation Award from the Entomological Society of America (ESA).

The award honors young professionals working in entomology who have demonstrated innovation through contributions within any area of specialization -- research, teaching, extension, product development or public service. The award will be presented on Nov. 16 at the 2008 ESA Annual Meeting in Reno, Nev.

A native Brazilian, De Moraes earned her bachelor of science in ecology from the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. She received her doctorate in entomology from the University of Georgia. De Moraes’ primary scientific interests are in understanding the critical roles of chemical communication in ecological interactions. She focuses on the role of plant volatiles in mediating interactions among plants and insects.

De Moraes’ has also received a variety of awards, including a David and Lucile Packard Foundation Fellowship for Science and Engineering, the Beckman Young Investigator Award, and the DuPont Young Professor Award. She recently received a National Science Foundation CAREER award. De Moraes is active in teaching and outreach and is particularly committed to promoting the integration of minorities and women in science.

Founded in 1889, ESA is a non-profit organization committed to serving the scientific and professional needs of more than 5,700 entomologists and individuals in related disciplines. ESA's membership includes representatives from educational institutions, government, health agencies, and private industry.