M.S. Program

Ashley (Ash) Russo

Ash is broadly interested in vector ecology and One Health: how humans, animals, and the environment interact with one another. In the BITE lab, Ash is researching tick dispersal on mammals and developing mouse nest boxes as a novel tool for tick surveillance. Ash received her B.S. in Animal Science from The Pennsylvania State University. She is excited to work with an array of critters from tiny ticks to large cattle, working to develop creative pest management tools for farmers.

M.S. Online Program

Allison Tucker

Fayette County ANR Extension Agent

I am a master's student of Entomology, and I currently serve as the Fayette County Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources. My background is in animal science and livestock production, primarily beef and dairy cattle, as well as equine. My main research interest is to determine the most effective ways to bring tick awareness and education to livestock producers and other community members. 

Sustainability Intern

Lily Tynan

Lily is originally from Boston, Massachusetts, and is currently in Lexington, finishing a Bachelor of Science in Equine Science and Management with a minor in Animal Science. Lily is currently in the process of applying to vet schools for a spot in the fall class of 2026. Her main focuses include equine health and disease, and she has worked on projects in the BITE Lab surrounding natural fly predators and the effect of fly populations on Kentucky horse farms. Lily is an avid equestrian, artist, and all-around animal lover with a passion for welfare and compassion for all species.

Research Students

Amanda Carrithers

I’m Amanda Carrithers, an Animal Science major on the Pre‑Vet track with a minor in Entomology. I grew up on my family’s beef cattle farm in Bardstown, KY, where I developed a strong foundation in livestock management and agricultural production. My current research focuses on understanding the strategies farmers use to manage and prevent tick infestations across Kentucky, especially in the central region. By studying producer practices and patterns, I hope to help develop practical, science‑based recommendations that support both animal health and farm sustainability. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work directly with farmers and contribute to research that benefits Kentucky producers. 

External Department (non-Entomology)

Chloe Young

Chloe is currently working on research in animal reproductive physiology, with her primary studies focusing on intrauterine growth restriction in swine and maternal exercise effects on fetal development in sheep. Outside of her master’s lab, she assists the BITE lab with data collection, having experience in tick collection methods from undergrad. Chloe’s originally from Nevada where she grew up active in horse 4-H and FFA. She received her B.S. in Equine Science and Psychology from the University of Kentucky, where she worked on two research projects - 1) equine nasal-based acoustic sounds and 2) tick infestation severity on horses in Vieques, Puerto Rico. Chloe is seeking to return to her interest in equine behavior and welfare in the future.