PhD Student       monique.raymond@ufl.edu

Monique Raymond

 

 

Monique Raymond's early career in entomology was shaped by her work with natural history collections, which sparked a passion for taxonomy. She earned her Master of Science in Integrative and Organismal Biology in 2024 from the University of New Hampshire, where she previously received her Bachelor of Science in Wildlife and Conservation Biology. Her research at UNH produced dual taxonomic reviews of blueberry-infesting gall midges (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) and their parasitoid natural enemies (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) in the Eastern United States. Through her work, Monique uncovered cryptic species complexes at multiple trophic levels, inspiring her to strengthen the connection between foundational systematics and applied integrated pest management (IPM) to promote sustainable crop production and food security. Now a PhD student in the University of Florida’s Liburd Lab, Monique is excited to expand her expertise in IPM, particularly in biological control, while maintaining the perspective and precision of a developing systematist. Outside the lab, she enjoys exploring Florida's other flora and fauna, live music, road trips, and farmers markets.