Picture the joy of finding something that instantly captivates you — now channel that same energy into the world of bugs.
That’s the level of enthusiasm Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences student Lisa Rollinson ’25 brings to her research in the Department of Entomology. She is one of two Texas A&M University students who received the Barry Goldwater Scholarship this year, a distinction earned by fewer than 500 out of over 1,300 nominees nationwide this year
The scholarship program was established by Congress in 1986. This scholarship is renowned for recognizing outstanding students in mathematics, natural sciences and engineering, marking them as future leaders and innovators in their fields.
Earning the Goldwater Scholarship was no small feat, and for Rollinson, it’s just one highlight in a resume filled with impressive research, leadership and internship experiences. Rollinson’s journey is a testament to her relentless pursuit of knowledge and her commitment to environmental sustainability through innovative research.
Scholarship and excellence within entomology
“Being a Goldwater Scholar is more than just an accolade; it’s about becoming part of a community of the nation’s brightest minds,” said Jeffery Tomberlin, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Entomology, Texas A&M AgriLife Research Fellow and director for the National Science Foundation Center for Environmental Sustainability through Insect Farming.
Tomberlin said he has had the privilege of working with Rollinson for the past two years after she was recruited and mentored by Noah Lemke, a former doctoral student in Tomberlin’s lab.
The scholarship not only provides funding toward tuition, books, and room and board but also grants access to a network of alumni and researchers who are shaping the future of science and technology. It can open doors to prestigious internships and research opportunities, allowing scholars to advance their academic and professional careers.
In addition to the Goldwater Scholarship, Rollinson also received the prestigious Udall Undergraduate Scholarship, awarded for exceptional leadership and a strong commitment to environmental issues.
These recognitions reflect Rollinson’s dedication to research focused on environmental sustainability.
Research interests aligning entomology, environmental sustainability and innovation
Rollinson’s research centers on the black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens, an insect that has shown incredible potential for circular economy in sustainable agriculture. These flies are remarkable for their ability to convert organic waste into high-quality insect protein and compost. This makes them a valuable component to waste management systems and animal feed production.
However, managing black soldier flies can present challenges at times due to variability in egg production. Rates of fertile egg production can fluctuate; a variance that is possibly linked to differences in the size of the fly’s reproductive structures and its impact on mating success.
To investigate this issue, Rollinson designed an experiment that determined the size of body structures under different population densities.
“Precision was key,” she said. “I measured each structure multiple times to verify my accuracy.”
Her work provided valuable insights into how size-related factors might influence egg production, which could lead to improvements in breeding practices and enhance the role of black soldier flies in sustainable agriculture.
A prestigious internship at the Smithsonian
Last summer, Rollinson’s passion for entomology was further cemented during her internship at the Smithsonian Institution, Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. This opportunity allowed her to collaborate and gain invaluable hands-on experience alongside some of the world’s top entomologists.
While at the Smithsonian, Rollinson identified and catalogued insect specimens, which deepened her understanding of the intricacies of entomological research and conservation.
One of her most exciting achievements was discovering a new species of bee fly. She also played a crucial role in clarifying the classification of two genera by carefully examining over 300 specimens to establish their synonymy.
Additionally, Rollinson redescribed seven different species of bee flies by adjusting the criteria used to identify them and created a simplified guide to help others identify these species, complete with photographs to aid in the process.
“I had the chance to work on a project I really enjoyed,” she said. “It was an incredible experience to be part of an institution dedicated to studying insect biodiversity on a global scale.”
Dedication and applications
As a recipient of two prestigious scholarships, Rollinson serves as a powerful example for students aspiring to research careers.
“Applying for competitive scholarships and research opportunities can be really daunting, but it’s worth it,” she said. “Even if you don’t win right away, the process helps you grow and gain valuable experience.”
Rollinson was not nominated for the Goldwater Scholarship on her first try. But she remained determined and, with the support of her mentors, ultimately succeeded.
“I’m deeply grateful for the guidance from my professors and the Department of Entomology,” she said. “Their support has been crucial to my achievements.”
Looking ahead, Rollinson is excited to continue her research and explore its potential to address global challenges.
“I want to investigate how insect-based solutions can help tackle issues like food insecurity, environmental sustainability and more,” she said. “Insects offer innovative solutions to some of the most pressing problems we face today.”
