People

Chinmay Tikhe, MS, PhD

Principal Investigator

I am an Assistant Professor of Microbiology at Ball State University. My research explores the fascinating world of insect–microbe interactions, with a special focus on mosquitoes and their associated microbiomes. I have pioneered innovative approaches to vector and pest control, including the use of bacteriophages to manipulate insect-associated bacteria and the development of microbial biopesticides as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides.

I earned my Ph.D. in Entomology from Louisiana State University and later worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Research Associate at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. My work spans both fundamental microbiology and applied translational science; from understanding how microbes shape insect biology to creating practical tools for disease and pest management. I have conducted extensive field research in Africa and collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), linking laboratory discoveries to real-world applications in vector control and public health.

I am passionate about teaching, mentoring students, and involving them in hands-on research projects that connect microbiology, entomology, and biotechnology.

Beyond the lab, I am committed to outreach and community engagement, whether through student phage-hunting initiatives, collaborations with public health partners, or the development of microbial solutions to pressing challenges in agriculture and human health.

Graduate Students

Mason Palmer

M.S. Biology 2028

My research interest focuses on insect ecology, pathogen prevalence, and vector-borne disease dynamics, with particular emphasis on the blacklegged tick and lone star tick. I am especially interested in investigating geographic variation in pathogen prevalence across both statewide and national scales to better understand spatial patterns of disease risk and transmission.  I am also interested in how biodiversity and host competence shape disease dynamics.  My previous research has focused on the distribution and expansion of the invasive Asian longhorned tick throughout Rhode Island, with an emphasis on host-seeking behavior and habitat preferences.  I have also worked on a research project called Project ITCH (Is Tick Control Helping?), where I would survey residential properties for tick species and spread awareness about tick-borne diseases and prevention methods.  


When I am not in the lab, I enjoy going on hikes, playing card games, movie/TV bingeing and going to the gym.

Chase Bond

M.S. Biology 2028

I am interested in studying the diversity and ecology of mosquitoes and the diseases they vector. My previous research includes modeling habitat suitability for Culiseta melanura, the enzootic vector of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) across St. Lawrence County, NY using GIS and evaluating the efficiency of collapsible resting shelters compared to the traditional diurnal resting box for mosquito surveillance. 
 
Outside of research, I enjoy spending time with my cats (Olive and Fergus), doing crafts, camping and kayaking. 

Sydney Powell

M.S. Biology 2028

My academic focus intersects microbiology, ecology, and natural resources management. I am particularly interested in how microbial communities shape the health and survival of larger organisms, including insects, and how these interactions can influence ecosystems and disease dynamics. I am also interested in the connections between water quality and microbial diversity, especially in the context of environmental change. My previous experiences include assisting graduate students with ongoing research projects in Dr. Ward’s lab at Ball State, microbial sampling and water quality research on the White River in Muncie, partnering with Muncie wastewater treatment plant to identify microplastic hotspots and support efforts to improve wastewater management, as well as ecological diversity projects in both classroom and field settings. I am also interested in island food systems and food insecurity, and I have done work with mixed-methods surveys regarding food insecurity here in Central Indiana. I am excited to explore how studying insect–microbe relationships can contribute to approaches for improving ecosystem and public health.
Outside of academics and research, I enjoy biking, hiking, kayaking, and playing badminton.

See yourself here? Check the Opportunities tab.

Opportunities