Join our labI am especially interested in recruiting students from diverse backgrounds with interests in phylogenetics, biogeography, birds, and natural history collections.
My lab supports students from both the Ecology, Evolution, Behavior [EEB] and Conservation Sciences [CS] graduate programs. Please check out the links on the right to learn more about these program and see which is a better fit. Graduate students in my lab benefit from being part of the Bell Museum. In addition to their research, students are expected to participate in specimen-based activities and science outreach. We also participate in joint lab meetings with the Jansa and Barker labs. All students are expected to make a strong commitment to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion in science and academia. Current projectsPopulation genetics of the Great Lakes Piping Plover.
Study the population dynamics of an endangered species, which underwent a severe population bottleneck a few decades ago. Recovery efforts have been able to grow this population but many questions about its genetic diversity remain to be addressed and are critical to its viability. Additionally, this study presents a rare opportunity to sample almost the entire population allowing us to explore and test classic demographic models. This project will involve lab work, bioinformatics, and field work. This project also offers opportunities to perform outreach at the Bell Museum and other venues. Requirements: Applicants must have a BA/BS in biology, genetics, evolution, or related field. Previous experience with research, DNA sequencing, genetics, or bioinformatics, is preferred. Phylogeography of birds in Madagascar. The island of Madagascar is a biodiversity hotspot and home to several unique bird species. This project uses genetic data and phylogenetics to investigate hypotheses of diversification and uncover hidden species diversity. The study has the potential to uncover novel biogeographic or phylogeographic patterns and possibly describe new species. This project will involve lab work, bioinformatics, and field work. This project also offers opportunities to perform outreach at the Bell Museum and other venues. Requirements: Applicants must have a BA/BS in biology, genetics, evolution, or related field. Previous experience with research, DNA sequencing, genetics, or bioinformatics, is preferred. |
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