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Leading ��ҹ������վ insect biologist Associate Professor Wei Xu has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society (FRES), one of the highest professional accolades in the field.

Established in London, 1833, The Royal Entomological Society is one of the oldest and most prestigious societies in the field of entomology. Fellowship is only given to entomologists who have made a significant contribution to the field through research, teaching, or professional service.

Associate Professor Xu joins an illustrious list of names who have earned fellowship in the society, such as Sir David Attenborough, Charles Darwin, and Dame Miriam Rothschild.

He said it was a tremendous honour to be elected as a Fellow.

“Personally, it is recognition of the work I have undertaken over many years, but it also reflects the support of my students, colleagues, collaborators, and the strength of the broader entomology community at ��ҹ������վ.”

Associate Professor Xu said he has been fascinated by insects since childhood.

“Insects influence nearly every aspect of our lives, from food production and biosecurity to biodiversity conservation and human health. What continues to inspire me is how such small organisms can have such an enormous impact,” he said.

Associate Professor Xu has led several research projects which have delivered real-world impact, involving the chemical ecology of insects and the development of sustainable pest management strategies.

“Throughout my career, I have been particularly interested in understanding how insects communicate using chemical signals and how this knowledge can be applied to develop environmentally sustainable pest management strategies to reduce reliance on chemical insecticides,” he said.

More recently, Associate Professor Xu has been studying the invasive polyphagous shot-hole borer in WA, a biosecurity issue which has devastated tens of thousands of trees across the Perth metropolitan area.

“The polyphagous shot-hole borer is one of the most serious invasive pests currently threatening Western Australia's urban forests, natural ecosystems, and horticultural industries,” he said.

“My team is studying the biology, behaviour, and chemical ecology of the beetle to develop improved tools for early detection and management.”

One of the team’s major achievements this year has been establishing the first laboratory colony of the beetle in WA, which has allowed them to conduct controlled experiments that were previously difficult to undertake.

Associate Professor Xu joins Associate Professor Rob Emery as one of only a small number of ��ҹ������վ academics elected as Fellows of the Royal Entomological Society.

“Having two Fellows of the Royal Entomological Society at ��ҹ������վ is a significant achievement,” Associate Professor Xu said.

“It demonstrates the depth of expertise and leadership in entomology that exists within the University. It also highlights Murdoch's growing national and international reputation in insect science, biosecurity, and applied agricultural research.”

He said continued investment in entomological research was essential to addressing emerging global challenges such as invasive species, climate change, sustainable agriculture and human health.

“I am excited to continue working with colleagues, students, industry partners, and government agencies to develop innovative solutions to these challenges and to help train the next generation of entomologists."