
Since joining the UMD Department of Entomology in 2014, Dr. Hamby has developed a nationally and internationally recognized research and extension program that focuses on characterizing spotted wing drosophila's interactions with yeast and fruit rot microorganisms and developing cultural control tactics for this invasive pest. Hamby’s lab is also evaluating the pest suppression benefits and non-target impacts of neonicotinoid seed treatments in mid-Atlantic grain crop rotations. In 2017, The Entomological Society of America recognized Dr. Hamby with the Early Career Professional Extension Award for her demonstrated contributions to entomology.