RADFORD, Va. (AP) — Startled by the sudden fluorescent light, a hissing cockroach scurries through his fingers looking for safety.

His blue blazer and finely-trimmed facial hair are trademarks of a professorial appearance that masks a child-like curiosity the insect has inspired in him — and his students.

On most days during the fall term, this is how you're likely to find Dr. Jason Davis — or "Roach Man," as he is informally known on Radford University's campus.

"That works, I guess" Davis said of his nickname. "I like the notion that people are starting to recognize there are some things goi...