Professor Nigel Andrew, from Southern Cross University, has been awarded the 2024 Ian Mackerras Medal for his contributions to insect science.
The medal is the Australian Entomological Society’s biennial award for excellence in entomology.
It is named in honour of Dr Ian Mackerras, the Society’s first President and an entomologist who “embodied the excellence in entomological pursuits that the award recognises”.
Professor Andrew described the recognition as a “humbling experience”.
“So many of my entomological mentors have been awarded this prestigious award,” he said. “It’s fantastic to be part of an amazing community.”
Professor Andrew became Southern Cross University’s first Professor of Entomology two years ago. He is also the Chair of Science in the Faculty of Science and Engineering.
He is a member of the ARC (Australian Research Council) College of Experts, the Editor-in-Chief of the Austral Ecology journal, and Vice-President of the Entomological Society of NSW.
His key research areas include:
- Red Imported Fire Ants (Solenopsis invicta): Professor Andrew provided expert opinion at the national Inquiry into Red Imported Fire Ants in Australia in March 2024 and is a sought-after expert for journalists about fire ant incursions.
- Macadamia pests and IPM (integrated pest management): Working with local macadamia farmers in northern NSW and Queensland’s Wide Bay-Burnett region, Professor Andrew’s research group is assessing IPM in macadamia orchards.
- Pasture mealybug (Heliococcus summervillei): Professor Andrew has collaborated with NSW Local Land Services to investigate the recent incursion of into northern NSW.
- Dung beetles on farms and in native forests: Professor Andrew continues his long-term research on dung beetles and works with both farmers and local conservation agencies on the impact of habitat change and extreme weather exposure on dung beetle physiology and community structure.
