COSTA MESA, CA, June 30, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Roger Allen Burks, PhD, has been included in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Dr. Burks is a distinguished professional with a focus in entomology, currently serving as an entomologist with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2023. In his present role, he is responsible for identifying contaminated food and ensuring its removal from the market, a critical task that underscores his expertise in the field. Prior to this position, Dr. Burks contributed his skills as a biological science laboratory technician with the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service from 2020 to 2023, where he further honed his analytical capabilities by working with national identification services.

Between 2013 and 2020, Dr. Burks spent a significant portion of his career as an assistant specialist at the University of California, Riverside. His tenure at the university was marked by his dedication to research and education in systematic entomology. Leading up to his time there, he served as a postdoctoral researcher at The Ohio State University from 2010 to 2013, where he expanded his research on Chalcidoidea insects. Additionally, he was a visiting postdoctoral scholar at the University of Adelaide in Australia from 2010 to 2011, which provided him with international exposure and experience.

Dr. Burks' academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in 1997. Thereafter, he pursued advanced studies at the University of California, Riverside, earning a master's degree in systematic entomology in 2001 and later a doctorate in the same field in 2009. All in all, his academic achievements laid a strong foundation for his professional success and recognition as a world expert on Chalcidoidea insects.

Throughout his esteemed career, Dr. Burks has been an active member of industry-related organizations such as the Entomological Society of America and The International Society of Hymenopterists. His contributions to these societies include presenting at various conferences and sharing his extensive knowledge through numerous publications. Notably, he authored over 25 chapters in "Chalcidoidea of the World" and has published over 30 journal articles.

In line with his professional endeavors, Dr. Burks is a supporter of environmental organizations like the Sierra Club and The Nature Conservancy. His passion for nature extends beyond his professional life into personal interests as well, which include gardening and cooking. Outside of his primary work, Dr. Burks' dedication to continuous learning is evident through his numerous certifications obtained via LinkedIn in 2025—covering topics that range from artificial intelligence applications to personal development strategies—that reflect his commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation and self-improvement.

Looking ahead, Dr. Burks aspires to be a pioneer in integrating artificial intelligence within his field at the FDA while continuing his creative pursuits in writing and art. In all he has achieved, he attributes his success to his determination, knowing that he is making a positive difference with his work. From humble beginnings, having been raised in rural Arkansas, working on a farm and never attending high school, to taking the General Education Development test at 19 and going straight to college with the goal of becoming an entomologist, Dr. Burks did not let his background stop him from achieving his goals. In pursuing and accomplishing his dream and being the first in his family to earn a doctorate, he aims to inspire others to take action and achieve their goals, believing anyone can make a difference if they want to.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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