For much of my research career, I conducted field-based and experimental research that addressed questions related to community and evolutionary ecology. I started out as an undergrad investigating the relationship between birds and introduced plants focusing on the impact introduced plant species can have on native bird populations and communities, and how that influenced the seed dispersal interactions of native species. Since then much of my research has dealt with frugivory (animals eating fruit) and seed dispersal, and, during my Ph.D., I investigated the potential influence that rapid changes of introduced birds can have on seed dispersal interactions. I also aided with numerous seed dispersal research projects that included the use of stable isotopes to track the dispersal of seeds and resources, field and laboratory experiments, network analyses of plant-frugivore interactions, and determining the roles species play within ecological networks. Now, I am investigating the influence of human-mediated processes on the biogeography, coexistence, and conservation of reptile and amphibian species in the Caribbean.

Throughout my career, I have strived to better understand quantitative methods in ecology. As part of this, I created in-depth data management plans so that scientific information can be easily accessed, reproduced, and most importantly, understood. In addition, I use statistical and computer programming languages to increase the transparency and reproducibility of scientific methods.

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I also believe that scientific outreach, mentorship, and teaching are extremely important for any scientist, and therefore, have spent much of my time developing outreach programs to bring research to the general public and teach future generations of scientists. No matter the outcome of my research, I believe that if through outreach, mentoring, and/or teaching, I inspire and provide opportunities for people, especially those of underrepresented groups, to undertake a career of scientific inquiry, then I have succeeded as a scientist.

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Article written about me during my time at Penn State can be found HERE