Rate My Professor Mariana Wolfner

Wolfner’s research in Biology examines the molecular and genetic mechanisms governing reproductive processes around fertilization in Drosophila melanogaster, including the functions and evolution of seminal fluid proteins that modulate female reproductive physiology, behavior, and fertility, and the molecular signals activating oocytes for embryogenesis. These fundamental, conserved processes have implications for other animals, including humans and insect disease vectors. Her influential publications include “Evolution of genes and genomes on the Drosophila phylogeny” (Nature, 2007; 2399 citations), “Cost of mating in Drosophila melanogaster females is mediated by male accessory gland products” (Nature, 1995; 1648 citations), “Insect seminal fluid proteins: identification and function” (Annual Review of Entomology, 2011; 1023 citations), “Tokens of love: functions and regulation of Drosophila male accessory gland products” (Insect Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 1997; 673 citations), and “Reproduction–immunity trade-offs in insects” (Annual Review of Entomology, 2016; 666 citations). Major honors include election to the National Academy of Sciences (2019), Genetics Society of America Medal (2018), NIH MERIT Award (2020), and Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (2006). She serves on editorial boards for Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, PLoS Biology, GENETICS, and others, and on study sections and professional organization boards.