Larry Keeley , Ph.D.
Congratulations to Larry Keeley as the 1998 recipient of the J. V. Osmun Alumni Professional Achievement Award in Entomology from Purdue University.
Dr. L.L. Keeley of the Department of Entomology received his BS in Biology from the University of Notre Dame and his Ph.D. in Entomology from Purdue University. He came to Texas A&M University in 1966 as Assistant Professor of Entomology and has been Professor of Entomology since 1976. His research in insect endocrinology has been recognized by several prior awards including the Association of Former Students of Texas A&M University, Faculty Distinguished Achievement Award in Research; Texas Agricultural Experiment Station Award in Excellence for Research-On Campus; the J.E. Bussart Award of the Southwestern Branch of the Entomological Society of America; and Researcher of the Year by the Texas Aquaculture Association.
Dr. Keeley’s Research has investigated the neurohormones of insects and crustaceans and their potential for practical applications. Neurohormones are protein hormones secreted by nerve cells and constitute the master regulators for the secretion of other hormones and for regulation of essential processes such as growth and reproduction. The manipulation of the synthesis, secretion and actions of the neurohormones in insects could have significant impact on insect molting, metamorphosis, and reproduction that could be used in novel insect-specific strategies for pest control. Dr. Keeley has published numerous papers on the neurohormones, and his speculative papers on the possible applications for invertebrate neurohormones stimulated research by industry, the USDA and other investigators into both the basic and applied aspects of insect neuroendocrinology.
The J.V. Osmun Alumni Professional Achievement Award in Entomology from Purdue University is given annually to a degree holding alumni of the Purdue University, Department of Entomology. The Osmun Award’s purpose is to perpetuate the standards of excellence exemplified by Purdue’s entomology department. The award serves to recognize and promote both high achievement and professionalism in entomology and its related fields.
The award carries with it a plaque for the recipient. A permanent display bearing the award winners’ names is located in the Entomology Department Conference Room at Purdue’s West Lafayette campus.