biting back documents the efforts of an interdisciplinary team of scientists working at rutgers university (new brunswick, nj) to study the catnip plant’s usage as an insect repellent that could prevent the spread of disease. the team uses and develops approaches in disciplines including chemistry, genetics, and agriculture to harness the plant’s potential.

the film traces their scientific research and personal, human journeys as scientists. we seek to interest the broad public, and students in particular, in learning about who scientists are, what they do, and what drives them to dedicate years of their lives to a research project.