Dr Kate Muirhead
Biography
Dr Muirhead is a senior entomologist with 20 years expertise in molecular and morphological diagnostics, biological control and host-parasitoid interactions. She is passionate about reducing chemical usage and insecticide resistance by developing area wide integrated pest management strategies for crop pests using approaches that investigate cultural practices, biodiversity dynamics and tri-trophic relationships among plants, pests, and natural enemies.
She is currently leading RD&E working on national research programs on the control of invasive slugs and snails in grain crops, including a program for the biological control of conical snails. She acts as a state consultant entomologist on biosecurity threats in South Australia and has contributed to the development of numerous entomology extension materials delivered presentations and training workshops to grain growers and advisors.
Research interests
- Optimising slug and snail management by investigating new technologies and cultural practices
- Developing biological control programs and IPM strategies for crops pests
- Biological and ecological research of invertebrate pests, biosecurity threats and beneficial insects to assess the risk of crop damage and the long-term profitability of management strategies
- Developing decision support tools to provide growers and advisers with an understanding of pest risk
- Communication and extension to foster strong relationships with industry
Qualifications
- PhD, 2010, University of Adelaide
- BSc (Hons, 1st class), 2002, University of Adelaide
Professional affiliations
- Member, Entomology Society of Australia
- Member, Lucerne Seed Advisor Network
- Member, Entomological Society of America, International Society of Hymenopterists
