Dr. Cerruti R² Hooks

I am a Professor and Extension Specialist in the Department of Entomology at the University of Maryland. My specialties include ecological pest management, conservation biological control, integrated pest management and integrated weed management.

My program aims include developing and disseminating farming tactics that are ecofriendly. Specifically, we use a trans-disciplinary research  and extension partnership to develop and disseminate farming tactics that concurrently suppresses above (e.g., insect, weed) and below soil (e.g., nematode) crop pests while improving soil quality and health. Our long term objectives are to provide producers information needed to transition greater acreage of arable lands to more sustainable habitats; and to introduce production strategies that will improve the productivity, quality, and environmental health of farming communities resulting in greater economical and environmental sustainability.

An additional program aim is to support small and resource challenged farmers. Limited land and a sustainable market are among those challenges faced by small farmers. Teaching these farmers sustainable agricultural practices and how to effectively grow and market their crops are additional program goals. We aim to increase their economical viability through the adoption of more sustainable and profitable production practices.

Organic agriculture is also a major part of my program. The overall aim of the organic research and extension program is to develop and disseminate information on production tactics that reduces off farm inputs while increasing profits. We specifically conduct research with the aim of concomitantly manipulating arthropods, weeds and nematodes including pests and beneficial organisms with the long term goal to provide producers information that gives them greater confidence in farming organically. To accomplish our organic objectives, we employ a multi-disciplinary strategy that includes collaboration with Agricultural Economists, Acarologists, Weed and Soil Ecologists, Nematologists and Entomologists. 

If you are interested in applying to graduate school and research areas of this laboratory coincide with your interests please feel free to contact Cerruti RR Hooks at [email protected]

Curriculum vitae

Contact Form

EMAIL ADDRESS

[email protected]

TELEPHONE NUMBER

301-405-4728

MAILING ADDRESS

University of Maryland
Department of Entomology
4291 Fieldhouse Dr.
4112 Plant Sciences Building
College Park, MD 20742

OFFICE ADDRESS

Plant Sciences Room 4144

LABORATORY ADDRESS

Plant Science Room 4127 and 4141