Marianna Szúcs

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Associate Professor, Biological Control
Department of Entomology

Bio

Dr. Marianna Szűcs leads a lab focused on the development, implementation and monitoring of biological control for invasive weeds and insect pests. Her work integrates ecological and evolutionary theory to improve the success and safety of biological control programs, using approaches that range from laboratory and greenhouse studies to large-scale field experiments and molecular analyses. She emphasizes mentoring students in critical thinking, hands-on research and the latest concepts in ecology and evolution.

Concentrations

Biological control
Insect-plant interactions
Eco-evolutionary dynamics

Courses Taught

ENT848: Biological Control of Insects and Weeds

Principles and practices in the application of natural enemies to control arthropod and weed pests; Identification and biology of beneficial species (parasitoids, predators, pathogens) and the ecological basis for their use in pest management systems.

Research

Szűcs’ research explores the ecological and evolutionary processes that influence the success of biological control programs. Her lab studies rapid evolutionary dynamics, hybridization effects, genetic diversity and mechanisms that enable agents and pests to adapt to novel environments. By understanding these factors, her team aims to maximize establishment, population growth and the long-term effectiveness of biological control agents in both agricultural and natural ecosystems.

Learn about Szucs' lab on biological control of invasive weeds and insects.

Extension

Szűcs provides leadership in implementing new biological control programs, offering guidance to growers, natural area managers, landowners and the public on best practices for releasing, redistributing and monitoring biological control agents. Her extension work ensures that research insights are translated into practical, effective strategies for managing invasive species.