In basic research, we are studying hearing in yellow fever mosquitoes in an effort to better understand the mating behavior, and therefore to control it.
In teaching, we are developing novel teaching materials for biology and mathematics courses using bioacoustic materials as "hooks" to engage student interest.

Mosquito-borne diseases are an emerging problem given the prospect of global warming. Yellow Fever was once a scourge, even in Tompkins County, in the late 1800s. We need to understand their host-finding and mating behavior by studying their sensory biology.
It is well understood that public understanding of even basic mathematics is much lower than desirable in our science-driven society. We are developing teaching materials based on students natural familiarity with and appreciation for, music and natural sounds, like birdsongs.

We are collaborating with Dr. Laura Harrington, of CU Entomology Department to study mating behavior in mosquitoes. We will be preparing a grant to extend this work.
We have developed a set of curriculum materials and are writing self-paced learning programs that use bioacoustic and music materials as their basis. This has been presented at national meetings and there seems to be enthusiasm for it.

Understanding how mosquitoes choose their hosts and where to bite is useful knowledge--what cues are they using? Are they using low frequency sounds? What role does sound play in their mating behavior. Answering these questions will have impact on public health control measures for mosquitoes.