Research Assistant Professor, School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science
- PhD, Forest Science, Michigan Technological University
- BS, Biology, Colorado State University
"Whether working with students in the lab, field or classroom, nothing beats seeing the spark of understanding ignite a passion for learning."
Unlocking the secrets in scat
I direct the Molecular and Foraging Ecology Lab. In this lab, we seek to unlock the secrets of scat. We assay the genetic properties of animal populations sampled via noninvasive techniques such as hair or scat and old bones and teeth. These techniques are primarily focused on the assessment of the genetics of Isle Royale wolves and moose. We also assess the diet of Isle Royale moose by microhistological analysis of scat, and the forage quality of Isle Royale moose by chemical analysis of forage plants. I also participate annually in summer and winter field operations for the Isle Royale wolf-moose research.