Marianna Szűcs

Contact Me

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

ENT 812 – Evolutionary ecology of insect and weed invasions (1 credit)

In this discussion-based seminar, students will explore invasion theories and the evolutionary and ecological processes driving plant and animal invasions. The seminar content is valuable not only for entomologists, but for anyone interested in the introduction of species into new environments, including those working in fields of restoration and conservation.

ENT 848 – Biological Control (3 credits)

This course includes two lectures and one lab session per week. Students will learn about the biology, ecology and identification of common insect predators and parasitoids used in biological control. This course will also cover the three main biological control strategies: introduction, augmentative and conservation. ENT 848 is ideal for students interested in understanding the fundamentals of how biological control operates, how it can be integrated into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs and its applications in ornamental and vegetable greenhouse production.

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.