Research in our lab uses field and laboratory experimentation in conjunction with molecular genetic tools to understand local adaptation, speciation, and gene flow using amphibian species as models. Recent work includes the development of SNP resources, planned breeding crosses, and cattle tank mesocosm experiments to elucidate patterns of evolution a hybrid zone. We also use microsatellite loci and GIS to investigate patterns of gene flow in a landscape genetic framework.

Interested in joining the lab? Are you an undergraduate at WKU looking for research experience in the field or the lab? Are you finishing your undergraduate degree at another institution? We welcome motivated students with an interest in herpetological systems, conservation biology, population biology, or evolutionary ecology. Molecular laboratory skills are a plus, but not a requirement!

Nick Levis has joined the lab as a MS student. Nick plans to investigate the effects of environmental stressors on wood frogs. Welcome Nick!

Congratulations to Kevin Tewell for acquiring grants from the Kentucky Academy of Sciences and Sigma Xi, and earning the Biology Department's Dillard-Hoyt Award for outstanding first year graduate student!