My research focuses on uncovering cryptic ecological processes to enhance understanding of biodiversity and improve conservation.

These processes include:

    -The movement of individuals and their genes.

    -Symbiotic interactions that are rare or difficult to observe.

    -The influence of environmental changes on sensitive species.

I use a combination of field experiments & molecular lab techniques to address major questions in ecology.

My major molecular lab techniques include:

    -Population genetics (microsatellite, allozyme, & sequence data)

    -Genetic barcoding and phylogenetics

    -Next-generation pyrosequencing

My dissertation focuses on the influence of landscape variation and mycorrhizal fungi on the distribution of a Neotropical epiphytic orchid (Epidendrum firmum) and its genetic diversity.