Dr. Kurt Vandock
Dr. Kurt Vandock worked his way into pest management from a completely different field, the United States Armed Forces. After his commission in the US Army, he served as an Army Entomologist. That’s where he was exposed to vector control, where’s he’s been ever since. Kurt holds a doctorate in Biochemistry with a focus on infectious disease. He has published numerous articles, holds several patents, and is an active member of several professional organizations. Kurt’s passion for public health powers his work as Head of Community Health for Bayer.
Name:
Kurt Vandock
Title:
Head of Community Health
Location
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
Years in the industry:
Nine
What are your areas of expertise?
Vector Control, Spray Technology, Infectious Disease
Why did you get into pest management?
After my commission in the US army, I served as an Army Entomologist. This exposed me to vector control, which I found fascinating.
What's your favorite thing about working for Bayer?
I enjoy working for a company that understands the importance of pest control in improving public health.
Have you earned any rewards or industry recognition of note?
I’ve received multiple military awards from my deployment in Operation Enduring Freedom. But my greatest reward is knowing I served my country.
What's your favorite bug and why?
Mosquitoes. They're the honey badger of insects. They're mean, they never give up. They are remarkably resilient.
What does "Science for a Better Life" mean to you?
As a scientist, I have always worked to learn, improve my craft, and make new discoveries. While this is a noble cause, without a dedicated mission to providing solutions, it is easy to do "science for the sake of science". Bayer breaks this paradigm focusing on science that provides solutions to protect people, pets, and the environment. This is how we make science work for mankind, truly providing "Better Life".
What's one thing most people don't know about you?
For a brief period (three years), I was a college professor specifically focused on vectors of infectious disease at a global level. I still hold my commission as a Captain in the US Army Reserves.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
Spending time with family, hunting, fishing, wood working.
What would you do if you weren't in pest management?
I'd be full-time Army.
