Aram Mikaelyan
Assistant Professor, Entomology and Plant Pathology
he/him/his
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Bio
Aram Mikaelyan’s work in host-microbe interactions in insects, particularly those involved in decomposing organic matter, has played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of ecosystem health and disease dynamics. His research on the microbiomes of these insects has important implications for environmental sustainability and public health.
Mikaelyan’s commitment extends beyond the laboratory to educational outreach. He has led the development of K-12 curricula focused on termite-microbe and blowfly-microbe interactions, enriching science education with real-world research applications. Collaborating with open access curriculum developers, he broadens the impact of his work, fostering a more informed and engaged future generation.
Aside from fostering a basic understanding of complex host-microbe interactions, his research extends to controlling livestock methane emissions and pest management, which aligns with global efforts to address climate change and health inequities. Moreover, the Mikaelyan lab’s work with blowfly-microbe demonstrates a proactive approach to emerging health threats, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.