Insects are integral to the function of Earth's terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. They pollinate more than 90% of flowering plants, are a major food source for wildlife, and play an in important role in the regulation of animal and plant populations and in the decomposition of dead plants and animals, and other organic matter. With support from the Grantham Foundation, Moore Foundation, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, the National Academies Presidents' Committee, and other public and private organizations, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine will conduct a study that will assess trends in insect abundance, identify research priorities, and suggest actions to slow insect losses in areas identified as most vulnerable and most critical to ecosystem function. This study will focus on insects in North America, which includes the United States, Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, and Central America. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine is seeking suggestions for experts to participate in the Status of Insects in North America study. Using these suggestions, National Academies staff will be looking to build a committee of approximately 16 volunteer experts in addition to collecting information for potential speakers, participants, and peer reviewers for any publications resulting from the activity.
Based on the Statement of Task, staff are looking for expertise particularly in the following areas:
The National Academies are committed to enhancing diversity and inclusion to strengthen the quality of our work. Diverse perspectives contribute to finding innovative approaches and solutions to challenging issues. We encourage the nomination of volunteers who reflect the populations we serve and also welcome in particular nominations of candidates from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, women, and early- and mid-career professionals.