Julianna Wilson

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Assistant Professor, Tree Fruit Entomology
MSU Extension

Degrees:
Ph.D. – Entomology and the Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, Michigan State University (2007)
MS – Plant Pathology, Michigan State University (2003)
BS – Horticulture, Michigan State University (1997)

Bio

Dr. Julianna Wilson is an assistant professor and Extension specialist of tree fruit entomology at Michigan State University. Her work focuses on the sustainable management of pest and beneficial arthropods in temperate orchard systems. Her Extension activities serve commercial tree fruit growers, crop consultants, and hobby orchardists. She also co-teaches graduate-level seminar courses and provides guest lectures.

Concentrations

Pome and Stone Fruit Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Pest and Beneficial Arthropod Management
Effects of Abiotic and Biotic Stressors
Crop Pollination and Pollinator Stewardship

Courses Taught

ENT812: Advanced Topics in Integrated Pest Management

Research

Wilson’s research is centered on the study of arthropod populations and communities as they respond to abiotic and biotic stressors in orchards in the Great Lakes ecosystem. Her lab uses approaches that include chemical and behavioral ecology, developmental and environmental modeling, landscape ecology and plant-insect interactions. Her work aims to develop and improve sustainable integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, including those targeting emergent and invasive species, in pome (apple, pear) and stone (cherries, peaches) fruit orchards.

Learn more about the Wilson Lab at MSU.

Outreach

Wilson’s extension program is dedicated to improving and implementing best management practices for arthropods in Michigan’s tree fruit industry. She works closely with growers to support sustainable production and pollinator stewardship, integrating research findings into practical recommendations. Through workshops, field demonstrations, and direct consultation, her program helps ensure long-term productivity and ecological resilience of pome and stone fruit crops.