Jonathan Parrott
Senator spotlight: 2026
Assistant Professor
School of Interdisciplinary Forensics
New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
West Valley campus
Q&A with senator
ASU affiliated:
How many years have you been employed at ASU? 6 years
What other institutions have you taught at before coming to ASU? Texas A&M University and the University of Strathclyde (Glasgow, UK)
What is your research and/or creative activities focus? My research applies genomic and ecological techniques within forensic entomology to better understand how insect evidence can be used to inform medicolegal investigations. My research focuses on identifying where sources of error may be introduced, from field collection and species identification to molecular analysis and environmental interpretation and developing strategies to improve accuracy and precision at each step. By integrating genomic tools with ecological data, I work to refine species identification, population differentiation, and estimates of insect age and development under varying environmental conditions. Through strengthening both laboratory protocols and field methodologies, my goal is to enhance the scientific reliability of forensic entomology and ensure that insect-based evidence is as robust, defensible, and informative as possible in legal contexts.
Senate affiliated:
How many years have you served in the Senate? 1 year
Why did you decide to get involved with the Senate? I decided to get involved in the Senate because I care deeply about how decisions are made at the university and how they affect our faculty, students, and charter. I believe shared governance works best when a diverse range of perspectives are represented, and I wanted to contribute my voice and experience. Serving in the Senate felt like a meaningful way to engage more actively in shaping policies that support transparency, academic excellence, and a strong university community.
Describe what you have learned (or hope to learn) during your time in the Senate? I hope to serve on the University Senate as a thoughtful and engaged advocate for our community and shared governance. I want to help ensure that decisions are transparent, while strengthening support for research, teaching, and student success. Most importantly, I aim to listen carefully, represent my colleagues with integrity, and contribute constructively to shaping a university environment where everyone can thrive.
What committees have you participated in, or would like to participate in and what were you able to (or hope to) accomplish? I currently serve on the Student and Faculty Policy Committee. I hope to contribute to policies that are clear, and supportive of both student success and faculty excellence
What would you say to your peers who might be considering accepting a nomination or nominating himself or herself for a position in the University Senate? I would encourage them. Serving on the University Senate has been a meaningful way to contribute to shared governance and have a voice in decisions that shape our institution. It’s an opportunity to represent colleagues, learn more about how the university functions, and help ensure that our academic community continues to grow and improve.