Social insect programs at Virginia Tech are lead by Dr. Richard Fell. A graduate of Cornell University, Dr. Fell studied apiculture under Dr. Roger Morse. He has been at Va. Tech since obtaining his PhD. in 1979. Recognized by Va. Tech and the Entomological Society of America for teaching excellence, Dr. Fell instructs on a variety of insect related topics including beekeeping, insect behavior and insect biology. Currently, the research group members are involved in teaching, extension, and research, with interests ranging from beekeeping to forensic entomology.