Field Courses and Research

 This year, I will be conducting field research on the prey selection behavior of army ants at the Manu Biological Research Station in southeastern Peru. This station is situated in one of the most biologically rich regions on Earth and provides direct access to a range of pristine rainforest habitats ideal for studying complex ecological interactions.

Our research will focus on how army ants choose and prioritize prey across different microhabitats and forest conditions, with the goal of gaining deeper insight into their foraging strategies and ecological roles.

To the east of the station lie vast tracts of intact rainforest concessions, many dedicated to the sustainable extraction of Brazil nuts, the most important non-timber forest product in the Peruvian Amazon. These areas offer additional context for understanding how land use and forest structure influence insect predator-prey dynamics.

For more information or to connect about this project, please use the "Contact Me" form at the bottom of the homepage.

Study of the morphology, physiology, and classification of the common insect orders and related arthropods with emphasis on species of economic or biological importance. Emphasis on integrated pest management concepts and proper use of pesticides.

More information to come

In summer 2026, I will be leading WMGT 1323: Wildlife Conservation and Management, a field-based course set in Madagascar. This program offers students the opportunity to engage directly with wildlife conservation issues in one of the most ecologically unique and threatened environments in the world.

Madagascar is known for its exceptional biodiversity and high rate of species endemism, but it also faces serious conservation challenges, including deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and the pressures of human development. This course explores the science and practice of conservation in this dynamic context.

Students will participate in fieldwork that includes species monitoring, habitat assessments, and biodiversity surveys. We will also examine conservation strategies that integrate ecological data with community-based management and policy approaches. In addition to practical field skills, students will engage in discussions with local conservation professionals and organizations working to protect Madagascar’s natural heritage.

This course is designed to provide both academic and experiential learning, preparing students for future work in conservation, wildlife biology, or environmental policy. If you are interested in learning more about the course or future offerings, please feel free to reach out using the contact form at the bottom of the homepage.