Biologist Daniel Ardisson-Araújo is a scientist concerned with the microscopic complexities that generate enormous macroscopic effects, as his research investigates the guts of insects in search of solutions for more sustainable agriculture. His project weaves a plot where viruses and bacteria play crucial roles, decreasing the lifespan and resistance of their insect hosts. In this way, unwanted insects for agriculture have a reduced life cycle and also reduce dependence on pesticides and transgenic plants.

Originally from Brasília, Ardisson-Araújo graduated in biological sciences at the University of Brasília (UnB), where he also achieved a master’s degree and doctorate in molecular biology. He had a sandwich period during his doctorate at Kansas State University, United States. Despite a stint as a professor at the Federal University of Santa Maria, the biologist returned home: UnB. Today, he teaches biology and veterinary courses and coordinates the institution’s Insect Virology Laboratory. Intervals from scientific research are devoted to crochet rugs and clothing, pilates and biodanza. An art lover, the biologist also makes analogue collages and loves reading, especially in the company of his three cats, Preta, Uqbar and pH.