One of the primary goals of my research program is to carry out projects that answer fundamental questions in ecology to serve as a foundation for conservation, management, and restoration of natural resources and natural areas. Broadly defined, I am a landscape ecologist and conservation biologist. My research is a blend of field observation, manipulative experimentation, molecular lab work, and quantitative modeling. With these tools, I answer questions at multiple spatial and temporal scales in an attempt to elucidate the mechanisms and processes underlying observed patterns. A clear understanding of fine-scale mechanisms allows for broad-scale management and conservation. Of specific interest to me are the effects of global climate change, habitat alteration/degradation, and urbanization on biodiversity, as well as the abundance, performance, and movement/connectivity of animal populations across the landscape. Some of the recurring questions in my research are:

1)    What environmental factors affect the distribution and abundance of species on the landscape?
2)    How are populations connected in space and time, and how does land use or habitat alteration affect dispersal?
3)    What management strategies can be implemented to ensure long-term population viability?

Please visit my lab webpage for additional details on my research. 

Ph.D. University of Missouri, Division of Biological Sciences; Columbia, MO (Advisors: Raymond Semlitsch and Lori Eggert)

M.A. University of Missouri, Division of Biological Sciences; Columbia, MO (Advisor: Raymond Semlitsch) 

B.S. Butler University, Department of Biological Sciences; Indianapolis, IN (High Honors) 

ENR 5374 - Landscape Ecology for Natural Resource Management