Postdoctoral Associate jasleenkaur@ufl.edu
Dr. Jasleen Kaur
Jasleen Kaur’s journey in agricultural science is deeply rooted in her upbringing in Punjab, India, where agriculture is not just a livelihood but a way of life. Growing up in a region where farmers face persistent challenges in pest management and crop sustainability, she developed an early passion for integrating scientific research with real-world agricultural solutions. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Punjab Agricultural University, specializing in crop protection, where she cultivated her interest in plant defense mechanisms and natural enemy interactions. This fascination led her to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where she pursued an MS in Biology, investigating multitrophic interactions in sorghum-sudangrass, specifically focusing on their interactions with sugarcane aphids, fall armyworms, and also with beneficial microbes and natural enemies. Jasleen went on to earn a Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Florida, where her research centered on plant defenses in weed biocontrol and the strategic use of biocontrol agents. Her work aimed to develop ecologically sustainable methods for managing invasive plant species.
Now, as a postdoctoral researcher, she continues to integrate ecological principles into integrated pest management strategies. Her current research focuses on developing sustainable solutions for invasive species management, particularly chilli thrips in blueberry orchards. She is dedicated to translating scientific discoveries into practical, science-driven strategies that contribute to global food security and agricultural resilience.
When she’s not immersed in research, Jasleen enjoys leadership roles, serving community, and spending time with friends over food and outdoor activities.
At the heart of her work is a commitment to bridging the gap between research and practical implementation, ensuring that advancements in pest management benefit farmers, ecosystems, and communities worldwide.
