Ayda Khorramnejad

My research focuses on insects of agricultural and medical importance and uses a system-approach ranging from physiological, fitness and molecular methods. In 2017, I joined the University of Valencia as an International PhD student through a competitive fellowship from the Ministry of Science and Research of Iran. During my PhD program, I isolated and characterized over 100 Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) isolates, identifying a highly potent strain, which is now being developed by Green Biotechnology Company Inc. into a commercial bio-insecticide. After my PhD, I was offered a postdoc position at the University of Valencia and later advanced to a research associate role, investigating the molecular mechanisms of Bt protein action. In 2021, I joined the University of Pavia as a postdoctoral researcher and was promoted to a junior researcher position (RTD-A) within the PNRR PE13-RN2 project in 2023. My research at the University of Pavia focuses on the physiological and genetic mechanisms underlying thermal acclimation and adaptation in the arboviral vector Aedes albopictus. I am also studying the effects of Bt exposure on the fitness, microbiota and the immunity of Ae. albopictus. Throughout my career, my research has consistently aimed at developing environmentally sustainable biological control strategies for both pests and vectors.