- June 2025
Laboratory Technician
Agricultural Science & Plant Protection
Years in Position/Service to MSU: 1 year
When you step into the Mississippi Entomological Museum at Mississippi State University, hundreds of pinned insects will greet you, each as unique as the next. While most people might shy away from bugs, Darby Tassell finds each one fascinating.
“My fulfillment in seeing the insects on display has driven me to attend graduate school in entomology, with the hope that I can become an insect taxonomist,” Tassell shared.
As a laboratory technician at the museum’s screening center, Tassell spends her days identifying, sorting, and observing countless insect species.
Her work primarily involves screening samples, many of which are sent by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Screening and labeling insects from the USDA are critical for monitoring pest populations, understanding biodiversity, and supporting agricultural health. These samples often include species of economic importance, such as invasive pests that threaten crops or forests and beneficial insects that aid in pollination and pest control. By accurately identifying and cataloging these insects, researchers can track changes in populations, respond to emerging threats, and provide valuable data for ecological and agricultural studies.
Beyond the lab, Tassell collects insect trap samples, labels museum specimens, assists with educational programs, and enters data crucial for ongoing studies.
One of her most memorable moments came during her first month on the job when the Extension Arthropod Zoo welcomed a new resident—a large walking stick. As the name suggests, it’s an insect that looks like a stick.
“Seeing a native phasmid was really amazing and goes to show what can be explored through my career,” she said. “It can be frustrating, but the process of learning how to prepare museum specimens is beyond rewarding,” Tassell said.
Tassell’s fascination with insects extends beyond her career into her personal life. She enjoys creating insect-inspired art, a hobby that allows her to focus on the intricate details of her favorite creatures.
“When I have the energy, it’s fun to try and capture all the tiny details insects have to offer,” she said.
