I am a new plant ecology professor at Whittier College. My research focuses on terrestrial invasive plant ecology and on better understanding the mechanisms for how invasive plants enter undisturbed forest ecosystems. In the past I have used niche modeling…
My research combines theoretical and statistical models and broadly focuses on socio-ecological systems to improve conservation science and practice. I develop models and methods for researchers and practitioners to quantify how different stakeholders interact with the environment, ranging from digital…
My research program is focused on understanding how groups of animals have evolved to coordinate their behavior as they interact with an unpredictable environment. Using mathematical models, agent-based simulation, remote sensing and computer vision, as well as lab and field…
I am in interested in understanding anthropogenic impacts on diets, distributions and behaviors of vertebrates. Photos
Our research focuses on understanding how and why local biotas are changing, and how such changes directly and indirectly influence ecosystem level processes and properties. Photos
Research in the Monzón Laboratory focuses on the ecology, behavior, and evolution of animals living on the edge. We examine the ecological causes and evolutionary consequences of geographic range limits in various animals. We also investigate the genetic differences that…
My research addresses understanding the mechanisms underlying plant responses to global change, including drought, heat waves, and vapor pressure deficit. I focus on California native shrubs and tropical rainforest trees. Photos
My lab takes an integrative approach in understanding animal-habitat interactions in a changing world. We are particularly interested in the effects of urban development and human activities on native wildlife. My research has primarily focused on lizards and snakes. Photos
The Questad lab studies ecological questions related to the maintenance of biodiversity and ecosystem restoration. Specific areas of focus include the reintroduction of plant species at-risk of extinction, the restoration of invaded ecosystems, and the application of remote sensing to…
My research program investigates the nature of teaching and learning biology in university and K-12 settings with a specific focus on making science more inclusive for all students. I am interested in understanding student and faculty perceptions and experiences in…
We study the eco-physiological responses of plants to environmental stresses (primarily water limitations) at the leaf and whole plant levels, with the goal of understanding how plant populations will adjust to a changing climate. Photos
Our research uses experimental and comparative approaches in plant physiology, ecology and evolution to answer fundamental questions regarding the function of plant diversity with an emphasis on plant’s adaptation to environmental stresses such as drought. More specifically, why do species…
We study the evolution of dwarfism in reptiles on the California Channel Islands, and responses to urbanization in western fence lizards and acorn woodpeckers. Photos
I study patterns of genetic variation in plants and the causes of that variation. Further, I study the consequences of plant genetic variation on the surrounding community. For example, I am currently setting up an experiment to study genetic variation…
Research in my lab is centered on terrestrial ecosystems and avian communities. We use field and citizen science data, spatial analyses, and quantitative approaches to explore questions that are focused on avian ecology, urban ecosystems, and conservation. Photos
