I am a Research Scientist in the Department of Biological Sciences. I am currently managing the Full Cycle Phenology project, which aims to understand whether and how the American Kestrel (a small falcon species) and other bird species will adapt to a changing climate. Because the geographic range of these kestrels is so vast, individuals breeding in different areas (e.g. Alaska vs. Florida), or who migrate long distances (e.g. Canada to Nicaragua) face different environmental conditions and may even be genetically distinct. These differences can affect timing of life cycle events and capacity to adapt to a changing climate. As you can imagine, geopolitical boundaries like states and countries are of little consequence to birds, so studying long-distance migratory species takes large-scale collaboration and cooperation.
As a Canadian who had previously worked primarily north of the border, this position has been such a unique opportunity for me to connect and collaborate with scientists across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. In addition to conducting fieldwork in a variety of awe-inspiring landscapes and gathering important biological data, I have been fortunate to have made some wonderful colleagues and friends.
As humans and wildlife face more and more global-scale challenges, it is so important to continue exchanging ideas, information, and building relationships through international education and collaboration!