Dr. Joanna Chiu is a Professor and Chair in the Department of Entomology and Nematology. Her research integrates molecular biology, genomics, and biotechnology to understand and manipulate biological timing systems in animals, particularly insects.

How did you decide to study (Plant Pathology/Disease/Epidemiology)?

My primary interest is to understand molecular mechanisms regulating animal behavior
and physiology. I fit well into the Department of Entomology and Nematology because I use
insects as animal models. I also leverage my expertise in molecular biology and genomics to
contribute to insect pest management. I decide to study animal behavior and physiology because
I am curious as to why and how animals respond to changes in their environment in order to
survive.

How have your past experiences prepared you for working at UC Davis/Did you have
any other jobs?

Besides being employed as a postdoctoral scholar, my job as an Assistant Professor at
UC Davis was my first job. To be honest, although I was well trained as a scientist as a graduate
student for 7 years and a postdoctoral fellow for 6 years, my job as a Professor is way beyond
being a scientist. It requires management skills and mentoring skills; these are skills I have
picked up over the past 15 years on the job. I am still learning to be a better teacher, mentor, and
manager.

What do you love about teaching at UC Davis?

UC Davis has the best student body. I get to meet talented, curious, and enthusiastic
students every day, and watching them succeed has been very exciting for me.

Beyond being a professor, what are some outside hobbies that you enjoy right
now?

I love my dogs. I spend a lot of time with them; I train them for scentwork, obedience,
agility. I just love figuring out how to best communicate with them.

What would students be surprised to find out about you?
 

They might be surprised to find out that I did not make up my mind to be a researcher in
biology or a professor until quite late. In fact, I first pursued PhD in Music, and not in
Biology. After some soul searching, I quit my PhD in Music and took a long road back to
Biology.

What is the best piece of advice anyone has given you?

Do what you enjoy, and that does not necessarily have to be what you are good at.