Name Nick Seiter
Pronouns He/him
Title Research Assistant Professor, Field Crop Entomology
Department Crop Sciences
Research/ Professional interests (keywords) Integrated pest management, Extension, Entomology, Corn and soybean production, Commercial agriculture
 

How did you become interested in public engagement?

I’ve always been interested in science, but the opportunity to solve problems is what drew me to science in general (and entomology specifically) as a career. I love working with farmers and others out in the field to identify science-based solutions to management challenges such as pest resistance. 

What kinds of engaged scholarship are you involved in now? (This can include community-engaged research, teaching, and/or outreach.)

As an Extension Specialist, I have an applied research program focused on developing insect management recommendations for Illinois corn and soybean farmers. This includes evaluating control tactics for major insect pests, monitoring insect populations for the development of resistance, and looking for new ways to keep insect pests from causing economic damage to these crops. I also develop educational materials and programs for farmers, crop advisors, and other agricultural personnel. 

Any recent successes or insights from your work?

This spring, my lab will be completing a project looking at insect pests and beneficials that inhabit cover crop systems; that project is being coordinated by my M.S. student Brodie Dunn. Our results so far suggest that a winter rye cover crop is does not dramatically increase the risk of economic damage from insect pests, though there are some pests that are more likely to occur in fields that have a rye cover. 

On the extension and public engagement side, we have successfully transitioned many of our educational efforts to an online format, and are actively increasing our digital programming. 

What tips would you offer to other scholars looking to become involved in public engagement?

Spend some time getting to know your audience – who are you trying to serve with your efforts, and what do they need? If your engagement efforts are geared towards professionals, consider a formal needs assessment if you have the means, but also identify some individuals within that stakeholder group who will give you informal, honest feedback on what you’re doing.