My research focuses on the reproductive physiology of insect pests. I’m mostly interested in how female sexual receptivity is turned on and off, focusing on pests such as true fruit flies (Tephritidae). My group has been studying the male ejaculate, through sperm and male accessory gland proteins. Some of these fruit flies are controlled though the Sterile Insect Technique, so we also focus on how to improve male sexual competitiveness. By studying peri and postcopulatory mechanisms in tephritid flies we hope to find ways in which sterile males can perform adequately at the pre and postcopulatory stage. We use an approach of animal behavior, physiology and molecular biology to a lower extent.

I am interested in the sexual behavior of other insects such as the mahogany shoot borer and more recently we are trying to help with the reproduction of Philornis downsi at the Charles Darwin Research Station.