Dr. Rachel Mallinger, Principal Investigator
Dr. Mallinger is an assistant professor in the Department of Entomology and Nematology at the University of Florida where she conducts research and extension on native wild bees, and teaches courses on pollinator ecology and conservation. She received a B.A. in biology from Kalamazoo College in Michigan, a joint Master's in Entomology and Agroecology from the University of  Wisconsin-Madison, and a PhD in Entomology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her research interests include community ecology, macroecology, pollination biology, and landscape ecology. Outside of work, she spends time (preferably outdoors) with her toddler son and husband, and enjoys traveling, good food, and good books.  Download her CV here ​ and follow her on Twitter @remallinger

John Ternest, PhD student
I am a graduate student in the Mallinger Lab studying pollination ecology in commercial blueberry production. I received my bachelor's degree at the University of Colorado Boulder, where I completed an honors thesis on honey bee behavior. I then attended Purdue University where I completed my master’s degree on integrated pest and pollinator management in commercial watermelon production. My previous work has inspired me to continue researching bees, specifically at the intersection of ecology and agricultural management. At UF I hope to integrate these aspects of my research in a manner that promotes pollinator conservation as well as effective and sustainable agricultural practices. Follow me on Twitter (@TernestJ) for updates on my research, photos of insects, and the hijinks associated with life as a PhD student. ​

James Weaver, M.S. student
I joined the Mallinger Lab in the summer of 2018. In the past I've worked with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service on habitat restoration and marine bird monitoring at Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, and also with USFWS as an ecological technician studying viability of urban landscapes for supporting migratory monarch butterflies. Most recently I worked with the U.S. Geological Survey on a habitat and health study for commercial honey bee colonies in North Dakota. I'm interested in landscape-scale conservation and enhancement of habitat for native pollinators. I received my undergraduate degree in Environmental Science from The University of Texas at Austin. Connect with me here.

Sarah Anderson, PhD student
I am a graduate student in the Department of Entomology and Nematology at the University of Florida studying native bees in the Mallinger Lab.  I completed dual Bachelor’s degrees in Environmental Studies and English at the University of Kansas.  During this time, I studied a wide range of organisms including cicadas, white tailed-deer, and of course, native bees.  Here at the University of Florida, I am continuing my research by exploring the effects of prescribed burns on the bee community in the Sandhill habitat. When I’m not studying bees, I enjoy going to concerts, camping, and spending time with my family, friends, and bearded dragon.    

Worrel Diedrick, PhD Student
I am a graduate student in the cooperative PhD program with University of Florida (UF) and Florida Agricultural Mechanical University (FAMU). When I am at UF, I study honey bee health in Dr. Mallinger’s Lab and when at FAMU in Dr. Kanga’s Lab. Previously, I completed my Master’s degree in entomology at FAMU focusing on egg parasitoids of Megacopta cribraria. My Bachelor’s degree in biology was completed at the Northern Caribbean University in Jamaica. During 2009 to 2015 I worked with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in Jamaica as a Plant Protection Officer where I functioned as a bridge between research and extension. One of my passion is to equip farmers with cutting edge information in agriculture. Whenever it is possible, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, especially, with my children.         

Former Lab Members
Ann Deaderick, Undergraduate Researcher - Currently pursuing a degree in theology at Emory University
Jon Elmquist, Technician and Lab Manager - Currently pursuing a MS in Entomology at Penn State