Tasks

• Chemical ecology of (pest-)insects and their antagonists
• Planning and implementation of research projects to prevent, detect and control insects attacking stored products
• Analysis and identification of natural volatile organic compounds (semiochemicals) for application in stored product protection
• Function of bioactive compounds in intra- and interspecific behavioral contexts and  multitrophic interactions
• Development of odorous attractants, suitable dispensers and trapping systems for monitoring stored product pests
• Methods:
  • Volatile collection systems: headspace (closed-loop stripping) techniques, SPME
  • Analysis: GC-FID, GC-MS
  • Odor perception and behavior in insects: EAG, GC-EAD, olfactometer, wind tunnel