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Neethi Johnson is a senior studying biology. Her research is with Dr. Glen Needham in the Department of Entomology.
What specifically do you research? What projects are you currently working on?
I do research in the field of medical/veterinary entomology. This includes the insects and arthropods that are major human/pet pests: dust mites, mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and bed bugs. I work primarily with dust mites and bed bugs. I am currently working on projects concerning the effects of ultraviolet C (UVC) light on bed bug survival rates.
I got started when I was taking an entomology class with my current research advisor, Dr. Glen Needham, and became interested in some research of his own that he had presented. I thought the topic was very interesting and applicable and asked to join his team.
How did you find this research topic?
Medical entomology has always been a hot topic since it is so pertinent to our daily lives and health. I wanted to do research on something that was directly applicable to everyday life. Many homes, hotels, and apartments have experienced bed bug infestations around the country and world. There have even been outbreaks at Ohio State in recent years. I work on mechanisms that can control and eradicate these bed bug populations and prevent them from resurfacing.
What have you enjoyed in your experience?
I've learned what passion is about. I wake up everyday looking forward to going in to see what I can discover. Research makes you realize how many things are out there and opens up doors you never thought were even visible. Have I made mistakes? Sure. Have I worked weeks and months on a project I was so passionate about, only to see it not amount to the kind of yield I was expecting? Yes. But without those little learning experiences, the triumphs would not be nearly as sweet.
What advice would you give to current undergraduates who want to get involved in research?
Do your “research” on topics, departments and advisors you could potentially want to work with. Make a list and then email/make appointments to visit these professors/PI’s in person. They will appreciate your active interest in their topic. Don’t be afraid to explore different options because you may find something that really interests you. Ohio State is one of the largest and most prominent research universities in the country
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