Elsa Youngsteadt is an assistant professor in the Department of Applied Ecology at NC State University. The Youngsteadt Lab investigates the effects of urbanization and climate change on insects, including bees and ants. Youngsteadt also maintains a native-bee Extension and outreach program, and developed outreach materials that are used statewide, including a bee ID guide for North Carolina. After completing her Ph.D. in Entomology at NC State, she worked as a science writer and editor for American Scientist magazine, then returned to research in ecosystems throughout the US, from the Carolina sandhills to the streets of Denver and New York City.