Genomics and Molecular Biology
This Program focuses on the genomics and molecular biology of pests and the plants and animals with which they interact. It also provides a critical and unique source of expertise to other Programs in the Department, to the College, and to the University. Organisms and systems that impact the agriculture and people of Colorado are emphasized. Program strengths are in genomics, bioinformatrics, biological control, phytobacteriology, vector biology, and gene expression.
Ecology and Biodiversity
This Program focuses on basic and applied insect ecology, chemical ecology, weed ecology, and plant pathogen ecology. Biodiversity efforts and expertise are focused on insects and related arthropods. These areas form an important foundation for the IPM Program, the Invasive Species Program, and linkages occur with the Genomics and Molecular Biology Program. Issues related to biodiversity and ecology are, and will be, critical to the future of agriculture and natural resources in Colorado, especially regarding the changing nature and use of public and private lands. This Program will emphasize improving the compatibility of agriculture, natural resource management, and environmental quality.
Biology and Management of Invasive Species
The primary focus of this program is on biological invasions involving weeds, pest insects, and plant pathogens. Fundamental research is on the mechanisms of invasions and includes molecular and population genetics, population and ecosystem ecology, and restoration ecology. Applied research and outreach emphasizes preventing invasions, managing invasions, and restoring damaged environments. A related focus is on biodiversity, including surveillance and diagnosis of threats to biosecurity, and response to these threats.
Integrated Pest Management
The IPM program is focused on management of pests in production agricultural systems, natural resources and recreational environments, and residential and public areas. Specific emphasis has been, and will continue to be, on applied research and outreach aimed at management of pests of wheat, dry beans, onions, and potatoes. Somewhat less emphasis will be placed on pests of corn, tree fruit, shade trees, barley, other commercial vegetable crops, and forages. Other crops will receive lower priority. In addition to targeting individual pests or pest groups, the program also emphasizes integrated approaches at the cropping system level. Primary emphasis is on developing pest management systems for pests of dryland crop production systems and pests of irrigated crop production systems in Colorado. Secondary emphasis will be placed on developing pest management systems for use in landscapes maintained to enhance the environment in and around where people live, work, and recreate and in natural resource environments. Contributing to problem-oriented interdisciplinary teams is an important priority for this Program.