Associate Professor at The Ohio State University ,United States
Megan Elizabeth Meuti is an Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology at The Ohio State University. She is an accomplished researcher whose work focuses on the seasonal and reproductive biology of mosquitoes, particularly species that transmit West Nile virus and other diseases affecting humans, livestock, and wildlife. She is widely recognized for her interdisciplinary approach, integrating molecular biology, ecology, and vector management strategies to address pressing public health challenges. Her research has been supported by competitive grants from major funding agencies, leading to numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and collaborative projects with national and international partners. Megan is also dedicated to mentoring undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers, fostering the next generation of scientists. Through her leadership, she advances scientific understanding of insect biology while translating discoveries into practical solutions for disease prevention and ecological balance in shared human and wildlife environments.
Professional Profile
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Education
Megan Elizabeth Meuti completed her higher education entirely at The Ohio State University, earning dual bachelor’s degrees in Entomology and Microbiology, both with high academic distinction. She later pursued doctoral research in the Department of Entomology, focusing on the relationship between circadian clocks and photoperiodic diapause in the Northern house mosquito, Culex pipiens. Her doctoral work examined how internal biological rhythms interact with seasonal cues to influence mosquito dormancy and reproduction, a subject with significant implications for understanding and controlling vector-borne diseases. Under the guidance of a distinguished advisor, she developed expertise in molecular biology, insect physiology, and environmental adaptation mechanisms. This academic foundation has been instrumental in shaping her research career, equipping her with a unique blend of field, laboratory, and analytical skills. Her educational journey established a strong interdisciplinary base, enabling her to bridge fundamental science with applied strategies in vector control and ecological health.
Experience
Megan Elizabeth Meuti currently serves as an Associate Professor of Entomology at The Ohio State University, where she leads a dynamic research program. Her academic career includes service as an Assistant Professor in the same department and prior teaching experience as a Visiting Professor in biology. She has undertaken multiple leadership roles, including chairing departmental committees, serving as Associate Editor for a peer-reviewed journal, and participating in faculty and student award committees. Her expertise has led to extensive collaborations with researchers in the United States and internationally, contributing to projects funded by agencies such as the NIH, NSF, USDA, and the International Atomic Energy Agency. She has worked with local mosquito control organizations to evaluate integrated pest management strategies while safeguarding pollinator health. Her role encompasses research, teaching, mentorship, and public outreach, making her a multifaceted contributor to both academic and applied entomology.
Awards and Honors
Megan Elizabeth Meuti’s career is distinguished by numerous awards recognizing her excellence in research, teaching, and mentorship. She has received honors for outstanding undergraduate advising, excellence in undergraduate research mentoring, and professional teaching achievement from the Entomological Society of America. Her research excellence has been acknowledged through awards from the Ohio Agricultural Research Development Center and the Department of Entomology, including recognition for graduate research, teaching, and service. She has also earned travel and presentation awards from national and international scientific societies, highlighting the impact and quality of her work. These accolades reflect her ability to excel in diverse aspects of academia, from generating high-impact research to inspiring students and peers. The consistent recognition from prestigious institutions and professional organizations underscores her leadership in advancing entomological science and her dedication to fostering inclusive and innovative scientific communities.
Research Focus
Megan Elizabeth Meuti’s research centers on understanding the seasonal and reproductive biology of disease-vector mosquitoes, particularly Culex and Aedes species. Her work explores how environmental cues such as light, temperature, and seasonal changes interact with internal biological systems like the circadian clock to regulate mosquito dormancy, reproduction, and disease transmission potential. She investigates the molecular and physiological mechanisms behind diapause, the influence of male mosquito ejaculates on female reproductive behavior, and the evolution of blood-independent egg production. Her research also addresses applied challenges, such as balancing pollinator health with mosquito management in urban environments, and improving sterile insect technique applications. By combining molecular biology, ecology, and epidemiology, her work informs predictive models of vector-borne disease risk. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, she integrates fundamental discoveries with practical strategies to improve public health and support ecological stability in the face of urbanization and climate change.
Publication Top Notes
Title: Genome Sequence of the Tsetse Fly (Glossina morsitans): Vector of African Trypanosomiasis
Authors: International Glossina Genome Initiative, GM Attardo, PP Abila, JE Auma, …
Journal: Science(2014)
Summary: Presents the complete genome of Glossina morsitans, offering insights into reproduction, immunity, and parasite transmission, paving the way for targeted disease control.
Title: Functional circadian clock genes are essential for the overwintering diapause of the Northern house mosquito, Culex pipiens
Authors: ME Meuti, M Stone, T Ikeno, DL Denlinger
Journal: Journal of Experimental Biology,(2015)
Summary: Reveals how circadian clock genes regulate diapause, enabling mosquitoes to survive harsh winter conditions.
Title: Evolutionary links between circadian clocks and photoperiodic diapause in insects
Authors: ME Meuti, DL Denlinger
Journal: Integrative and Comparative Biology, (2013)
Summary: Reviews the evolutionary connection between biological clocks and seasonal diapause, highlighting shared genetic pathways.
Title: Evolutionary and functional genetics of insect diapause: a call for greater integration
Authors: GJ Ragland, PA Armbruster, ME Meuti
Journal: Current Opinion in Insect Science,(2019)
Summary: Advocates combining evolutionary biology with molecular genetics to better understand the complexity of insect diapause.
Title: Artificial light at night alters the seasonal responses of biting mosquitoes
Authors: LR Fyie, MM Gardiner, ME Meuti
Journal: Journal of Insect Physiology, (2021)
Summary: Shows that nighttime light exposure disrupts mosquito seasonal patterns, potentially increasing disease risks.
Title: Circadian transcription factors differentially regulate features of the adult overwintering diapause in the Northern house mosquito, Culex pipiens
Authors: V Chang, ME Meuti
Journal: Insect Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, (2020)
Summary: Identifies specific transcription factors controlling different aspects of diapause in mosquitoes.
Title: Mom Matters: Diapause Characteristics of Culex pipiens–Culex quinquefasciatus Hybrid Mosquitoes
Authors: ME Meuti, CA Short, DL Denlinger
Journal: Journal of Medical Entomology,(2015)
Summary: Finds that maternal lineage strongly influences diapause traits in hybrid mosquito populations.
Conclusion
Megan Elizabeth Meuti exemplifies the integration of scientific curiosity, academic leadership, and public health impact. Her career bridges fundamental research on mosquito biology with practical applications in disease prevention, reflecting a deep commitment to solving global health challenges. She has cultivated strong networks of collaborators across disciplines and countries, fostering a research environment that values innovation, mentorship, and inclusivity. Her work not only advances knowledge of insect physiology and seasonal ecology but also shapes strategies for sustainable vector control, protecting both human health and biodiversity. Through her teaching, she inspires students to pursue scientific inquiry with rigor and creativity. Her track record of funded projects, publications, and scientific service positions her as a leader in entomology whose contributions have lasting relevance. Megan’s continued dedication ensures that her work will influence both academic research and applied health initiatives for years to come.