Dr. Avery L. Russell

Biography

Dr. Avery Russell is a behavioral ecologist, interested in pollinator cognition and its evolutionary consequences. He is an assistant professor of biology at Missouri State University, studying how reciprocal exploitation between plants and pollinators shapes foraging behavior and the display traits, rewards, and microbiome of flowers.

He is also passionate about outreach, mentoring  and inclusion in science and enjoys long walks with the bees. More information about his lab's research and activities can be found at https://therusselllab.net.

Details

Education

• PhD, Entomology and Insect Science, 2016, University of Arizona

Professional experience

Affiliations:

• Active member, Sigma Xi
• Active member, Animal Behavior Society
• Active member, The Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology

Research and professional interests

My research focuses on the behavioral and evolutionary ecology of interactions among plants, animals, and their microbial associates, with a particular emphasis on pollinator cognition. I care deeply about science education and facilitating diversity, equity, and inclusion in academia.

Additional resources

• Publications
• Teaching
• Website

Area of expertise

Media appearances

Are June Bugs Dangerous? How to Get Rid of These Beetles Before They Become a Major Pest
Good Housekeeping
05/20/2023
Entomologist Dr. Avery Russell weighs in.

Some bumble bees may be hyperventilating as the world warms
Science
01/12/2023
Entomologist Dr. Avery Russell addresses the threat to bumble bee species.

8 award-winning photos of nature’s stranger things
Popular Science
06/15/2022
Entomologist Dr. Avery Russell explains the mating behavior of cactus bees.

Fun fact Friday: When it comes to tomato genes, humans just can’t ketchup
The Standard
03/03/2022
Biologist Dr. Avery Russell explains about genes in humans, animals and plants.

NO! We don’t have murder hornets in Missouri; Here’s what you are seeing
KY3
11/06/2020
Entomologist Dr. Avery Russell cautions confusing European hornets with Asian hornets.

Ladybugs prompt Cox Branson to postpone a few surgeries
Springfield News-Leader
01/14/2020
Entomologist Dr. Avery Russell explains why ladybugs move indoors.