Department of Entomology Lincoln College: Review of Research, 1979-88

Abstract

It has been 10 years since the Department of Entomology was reviewed by Research Committee for an assessment of research directions and needs. Since that time there have been several changes. particularly at the Professorial level. Professor R.A. Harrison retired in 1979; after some delay Professor G.R. Williams began to develop some new directions until his untimely death. After further delays. Professor D.R. Penman was appointed to provide renewed research leadership. The past decade has, therefore, been punctuated by substantial changes in leadership but with limited staff turnover. Research directions have changed in an evolutionary rather than revolutionary manner as staff have continued research in their areas of expertise. Expansion of research into natural area ecology and wildlife management has been the most substantial change in direction. This review is timely in that some of the uncertainties of the past are behind us, although we are aware of the uncertainties of the future. As we enter the 20th year of the Department's establishment, we have developed a coherent approach to research which gives us the base from which to move into our next decade of operation. This document summarises the research of the Department by considering policy, directions and limitations. Details of particular aspects of activity are in the attached Appendices. Also attached is a statement on the future role of Expert Systems, an important new technology for agriculture. The enclosed booklet provides background information on staff, students and publications up to 1986.