Introducing Our New IPM Advisor, Idongesit U. Mokwunye
Idongesit U. MOKWUNYE earned a BSc in Zoology from the University of Lagos, an MSc from the University of Ibadan, and a PhD from the Federal University of Agriculture, all in Nigeria. Dr. Idongesit worked as a nut crop Entomologist at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) for over 15 years. She was the Head of the Crop Protection Division of the institute. Her research interests include integrated pest management, chemical ecology, extension entomology, and economic entomology. Specific research studies include the population dynamics of the cashew stem girdler as it correlates with weather parameters; its damage potential on various accessions and associated yield and economic loss; bio-ecology of tea mosquito bug on cashew and spray trials on cocoa mirids. In addition, she is experienced in plant/insect volatile extraction and insect behavioral bioassays. She has over 25 research publications in highly rated journals to her credit. She has served as a resource person engaging stakeholders in outreaches and facilitating training programs on Integrated Pest Management (IPM). She is a fellow of African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD), the Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) of the Netherlands Government, and the Scientific Exchanges Program of the USDA. She is a member of a few international and local professional bodies such as the Entomological Society of America (ESA), Entomological Society of Nigeria (ESN), and Nigerian Women in Agricultural Research and Development (NIWARD) among others. She has served in various leadership capacities such as the Acting Program Leader and Secretary of the Cashew Research Program, CRIN, Treasurer, ESN Ibadan Chapter, and the financial secretary, of the NIWARD CRIN Chapter. Dr Idongesit is passionate about self-development, mentoring, and volunteering. One thing on her bucket list is to go on a cruise across the continents.
She is committed to bringing her expertise and experience in pest management to bear in her new position as an Area IPM Entomology Advisor. She plans to connect and engage meaningfully with a diverse clientele to understand their needs, priorities, and perspectives regarding pest management issues and how to be better served. She will also collaborate with UC colleagues and other partners to conduct demand-driven, applied research and innovative extension programs on IPM that will meet the needs of the growers in line with UC ANR culture and values. Generally, she wants to play her part towards achieving healthy food systems, environments, communities, and Californians.
Dr Idongesit will be covering tree fruit and nut crops such as pistachio, almond, walnut, table grapes, and stone fruits in Madera, Tulare, Fresno, and Kings Counties. She can be reached at imokwunye@ucanr.edu or 559-807-0257.