Ian is a PhD of Science in Entomology student working with Dr. Lewis Bartlett, at the University of Georgia. His current focus is preventing and controlling small hive beetles as a cornerstone of improving honey bee health in the Southeast. He completing this PhD with the goal of eventually becoming an academic researcher working on honey bees and wider social insects. His research and academic emphasis focus on honey bees, community outreach and extension, with a goals of: 1) expanding the scientific knowledge of honey bees and 2) aiding beekeepers and apiculturists in their further enjoyment of honey bees. Along with research, creating a population of beekeepers armed with the knowledge of how to care for healthy bees and conserve the environment they thrive in is a cornerstone of his future academic career and goals.