Using genomics, experiments, and spatial ecology to explore origins of biological diversity, and human impacts on it.
Research
We seek to understand the origins of vertebrate biodiversity from single landscapes, through species' ranges, to entire species assemblages. Studies of variation in genes, morphology, and advertisement calls, combined with careful experimentation allow us to identify forces that shape diversity across geographical and temporal scales. We use similar approaches to quantify human impacts on Canadian species of conservation concern.
Teaching
Experiential and out-of-classroom learning is at the heart of my teaching at Queen’s. I offer field courses at our field station, but also in Latin America, Asia and Africa. I have taught first year to fourth year courses, classes of 400 students to mentorships with only one, intensive two-week field courses to term-long lecture courses, and embrace the challenges and rewards of all.
Topics
- Evolutionary genetics
- Field ecology and conservation
- Phylogenetics and biogeography
- Tropical ecology
