Research Interests
My research interests relate to the ecology, evolution, and conservation of vertebrate and invertebrate animals. As a behavioral ecologist, I frequently investigate how life-history strategies of animals are influenced by environmental factors, e.g., stresses associated with parasites, predators, or human disturbance. I study the ecology of animals at the individual, population, and community levels. Most of my research is done in the field (sometimes on campus and elsewhere in Michigan, but usually at field sites thousands of miles away). My students and I are working on the following major projects this year:
Over the past few years, other students in the lab have explored topics that include: life-history strategies of long-lived snails, clams, and salamanders; impacts of baitworm harvesting on the structure of mudflat communities; changes in coastal communities in response to human activities; and correlates of invasion success by non-native species of plants. Approaches used in my research include observations in the field (e.g., observing behavior of animals and tracking animal movements), experiments in the field and laboratory, mathematical modeling, and the use of molecular and biochemical techniques.
My research program incorporates undergraduate students at all levels of study, and includes many thesis projects sponsored by Albion's Prentiss M. Brown Honors Institute. Students are an integral part of my research program, and they are expected to present on their work at Albion College events (e.g., Elkin Isaac Symposium). Most will also present their research findings at a national or international conference, and many have published their research in peer-reviewed scientific journals (click here for a list of recent publications from the lab). Most projects require extensive preparation before fieldwork begins, and some may require the completion of relevant coursework in advance. During the field season (usually during the summer months), students typically work at distant field sites. Sources of funding for students have included FURSCA funds, URGE grants from Michigan's Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, and supplementary support from numerous other sources (NSF, EPA). If you're interested in joining the lab, please contact me as far in advance as possible (positions often fill more than a year in advance).
For a list of recent student projects, please click here
Sunset on the Starrs Point mudflat, Nova Scotia, Canada.