KZ: Hi Dr Jessa! Are you currently researching any new topics?

J: I’m working on a few projects at the moment. One is looking for new parasitic wasps that attack pests of our crops. These wasps lay their eggs on top of or inside of a host insect. These wasp eggs hatch into a larva that then eats its host from the inside out! When these wasps are specific to only one species of insect host, we can use them in sustainable pest control. I’m finishing another project on the life history of wasps that drill through 5cm of a tree to parasitise the caterpillar of the giant wood moth.

KZ: Did any childhood activities provide skills that you use at work?

J: As a kid, I spent a lot of time playing outside and watching the world around me. I also attended a naturalist’s camp when I was 11, which taught me about geology, ecology, and yes, entomology! This background helped shape my observational skills and appreciation for nature. This interest and curiosity helped motivate me through my studies and continues to drive me today.

KZ: What has been the personal highlight of your career so far?

J: The highlight of my career was publishing my book, Australia’s Incredible Insects, where I got to share some of the special insects found here in Australia. I have loved hearing from kids that have used the book and I hope it inspires more people to study and conserve insects!

Want to read more of our interview with Dr Jessa Thurman? Grab the October 2023 'Beast Mode' issue, out now!