M. Eric Benbow

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Professor, Aquatic & Decomposition Ecology
Department of Entomology

Degrees:
PhD - University of Dayton (1999)
BS - University of Dayton (1994)

Bio

Dr. Eric Benbow is a community ecologist, studying how complex communities can (e.g., aquatic or carrion insects or microbes) contribute to ecological systems and how understanding these communities can be used in various applications in medicine, disease and environmental management. With a joint appointment in the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Michigan State University (MSU), his work focuses on the intersection of ecology, entomology and human health, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and applied science. Dr. Benbow mentor’s students and contributes to advancing ecological understanding through teaching, outreach, and service in both academic and professional settings.

Concentrations

Aquatic Entomology and Disease Ecology
Insect-Microbe Interactions
Microbiome Ecosystems Ecology
Decomposition Ecology and Forensics

Courses Taught

ENT422: Aquatic Entomology.

Biology, ecology and systematics of aquatic insects in streams, rivers and lakes. Field trips and aquatic insect collection required.

Research

The ongoing research being conducted in Benbow’s lab centers on the applied ecology of insect–microbial interactions within three systems: carrion decomposition (and forensics), aquatic ecological networks and disease systems. The lab’s research revolves around three general questions: 1) Is insect fitness influenced by the community of microbes living in or on them?; 2) What are the ecological interactions of insects with the microbial communities associated with their habitat or food resources?; and 3) How can this information be used to inform resource management, human health and well being? The lab seeks to answer these insect-microbe questions for translation into human health applications.

This work has been supported by nationally competitive regional and local grants. Research from the lab has been published in leading journals and the lab's annual citation rate continues to rise, reflecting its growing impact in the field.

Learn more about the Benbow Research Lab at MSU.

Outreach

Dr. Benbow’s work intersects with many aspects of the One Health concept, and he regularly engages in workshops and symposia that emphasize and integrate this concept with research. The lab’s research has been featured in several international documentaries and invitations to participate in global science challenges like the XPRIZE Rainforest Competition.