Emily Bick joined the UW–Madison faculty in July 2022 as an assistant professor in the Department of Entomology and a pest ecology extension specialist in the Division of Extension.

What is your hometown? Where did you grow up? 
Short Hills, NJ 

What is your educational/professional background, including your previous position?
I have three degrees in entomology from Cornell University (B.S.) and UC Davis (M.S. & Ph.D.). Additionally, I am a triple board-certified entomologist. For the last three years, I was a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Copenhagen.

How did you get into your field of research?
I took a science research course in high school focused on developing an insect repellent.

What are the main goals of your current research and outreach programs?
I focus on applied agroecology, digital entomology (through modeling and technology), and spatial population biology. The goal of my research is to develop tools and strategies in support of data-driven precision management practices for insect pest control.  

What attracted you to UW–Madison?
UW–Madison has one of the best entomology departments in the United States. Moreover, as this is a land grant institution, our goals align in support of the people of Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Idea also aligns.  

What was your first visit to campus like?
All business! I did not realize how wonderful the campus was in terms of proximity to the lake!

What’s one thing you hope students who take a class with you will come away with?
Insects impact every part of our lives.

Do you share your expertise and experiences with the public through social media? If so, which channels do you use?
I use Twitter (@bick_emily) and occasionally write humor blogs for Entomology Today, including being their entomological theater critic. I also have a lab website – www.bicklab.com.

Do you feel your work relates in any way to the Wisconsin Idea? If so, please describe how. 
Food and the practices we use to grow it touches every part of our lives. I aim for my research program to increase farming productivity by applying digital technologies for precision targeting pests.

What’s something interesting about your area of expertise you can share that will make us sound smarter at parties?
The future of agriculture is digital. Decisions will be based on sensors, tractors will be self-driving, and farming will be app based.  

What are your hobbies and other interests? 
When not in the lab or out in the field, you will find me gravel bicycling, camping, skate skiing, or sailing.