Fall 2024 Featured Graduate: Cynthia Fiser
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EmailMeet Cynthia Fiser, a Ph.D. student studying entomology at MSU.
Cynthia Fiser
Hometown or state or country: Gaylord, Michigan
Previous education: BS in Applied Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Michigan Technological University (Class of 2017)
Major advisor: Dr. Douglas Landis
Q: What or who inspired your interest in entomology?
A: As an undergraduate student, I was a research assistant in Dr. David Flaspohler’s Lab and worked with [then PhD student] Dr. Colin Phifer at Michigan Tech. I was fortunate to be a part of a large, interdisciplinary research project on the effects of biofuels and land use on pollinators, predatory insects, and birds both in the Midwest and abroad. To this day, Bombus ternarius (orange-banded bumblebee) is still my favorite insect. My mentor, Colin, encouraged my interest in Entomology and was an advocate for my career in research science.
Q: What are you researching?
A: My research examines the impact of agricultural landscapes on arthropod biodiversity and ecosystem services. I am currently working within the LTER at Kellogg Biological Station, studying how perennial prairie strips in row crop agriculture affect ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae) communities and pest predation. I am also interested in the intersection of social and ecological science, or how future conservation efforts for diversity in agricultural landscapes will impact the lives of farming communities.
Q: What is your favorite activity, class or responsibility as part of your graduate studies?
A: I was primarily self-taught in Entomology leading up to my graduate career, and I thoroughly enjoyed taking Insect Taxonomy with Dr. Anthony Cognato my first year. As a graduate student conducting research at the Kellogg Biological Station Long-term Ecological Research main site, I am proud that my work contributes to ongoing studies of long-term insect monitoring and sustainability in agriculture. I love having the opportunity to collaborate with other graduate students and mentor undergraduates interested in research!
Q: What is your favorite thing about MSU?
A: As a student or faculty of MSU there are so many opportunities for application and partnership with extension or affiliated organizations. I am constantly finding new opportunities to study abroad, apply for research or financial assistance, collaborate with different departments on campus, etc. I chose MSU because it was a land-grant university invested in extension and building relationships with the farming community here in Michigan. These networks have greatly benefited both my research and professional career, and I hope to cultivate them for years to come.
