Naoki Yamanaka is a Professor of Entomology at the University of California, Riverside. With foundational training in biochemistry and molecular biology using the silkworm as a model, he now leverages advanced molecular genetic approaches to investigate core mechanisms of insect physiology. His research centers on neuroendocrine signaling pathways that govern development and reproduction in fruit flies and other insect species. Dr. Yamanaka is a recipient of the Pew Biomedical Scholars Award (2017), NIH Director’s New Innovator Award (2018), and Japan Academy Medal (2022). Peter Atkinson has been a professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of California, Riverside, since 1997. Prior to this, he was a Senior Research Scientist at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) in Canberra, Australia. The focus of his research has been the development of genetic control technologies in insect species of medical and agricultural importance.