Symposium in Honor of Liz Bernays

Elizabeth A. Bernays (1940–2024) was the Chair of Entomology and Regents Professor at the University of Arizona. She studied ecological interactions between plants and insects, especially the feeding behaviors of insects like grasshoppers (lubbers), aphids, and hawkmoths.

Born and raised in Australia, Bernays developed an early fascination with insects and plants. She earned degrees from the University of Queensland and the University of London. She began her career as a British government scientist, working in Africa and India on the biology and control of agricultural pests. She received the Vatican’s highest honor for scientists, the Pius XI Medal for this work.

Her interdisciplinary approach to studying plant-insect interactions and her dedication to research and education left a lasting impact. She supervised 38 graduate students and postdocs, who continue her legacy worldwide. After retirement, Liz wrote two memoirs, including Six Legs Walking: Notes from an Entomological Life. Liz regularly displayed her favorite insects at the AZ Insect Festival.