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Graduate Students

Student	Research Bio
Jessica Balerna Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Lewis Tampa campus jbalerna@usf.edu	My dissertation will examine the relationships between water management and wetland condition utilizing both ecologic and ethnographic data. I will ask questions about the impacts of land-use and groundwater extraction on wetlands’ hydroperiod, groundwater quality, and soil properties as well as about how residents and managers perceive and react to wetland ecohydrological change.
Eleanor Brodrick Program: M.S. Supervisor: Harwood Tampa campus ebrodrick@usf.edu	My name is Eleanor Brodrick and I am a Master’s student in the lab of Dr. Harwood. My research interests revolve around environmental microbiology. I am interested in performing research on the naturalization of fecal indicator bacteria in the environment. I will be studying the process of naturalization, what strains survive best, as well as the persistence of other bacteria and fecal markers.
Christian Brown Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Deban Tampa campus cbrown43@usf.edu	I am pursuing a PhD in the IB Department at the University of South Florida. My research interests include the movements of amphibians, especially plethodontid salamanders, ranging from fine-scale biomechanics of locomotion to dispersal at the ecosystem level. I'm currently studying the mechanisms by which plethodontid salamanders jump, how different mechanisms influence performance, and the underlying ecomorphological implications. In the past I have monitored the migration of breeding spotted salamanders in Kentucky, conducted population-level fitness analyses on tiger salamanders in the Rockies, and tracked the habitat use and movements of plethodontids in northern California over space and time using PIT-telemetry.
Emily Birdsall-Woodard Program: Supervisor: St Petersburg campus ebirdsall@usf.edu
Jeanette Calarco Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Harwood Tampa campus jcalarco@usf.edu	I am currently a PhD student in Dr. Harwood’s lab. Before joining the lab as a graduate student, I worked as a lab technician on a CDC-funded project researching critical barriers to antibiotic resistant ESKAPE pathogens in reclaimed water treatment trains. I have not yet determined what my research project will be, but I would like to stay within the topic of antibiotic resistant pathogens in the environment.
Cassandra Campbell Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Lewis Tampa campus cacampbell@usf.edu	I study how climate change drives shifts in vegetation in wetland communities, and investigate the resulting changes in plant-soil dynamics. My current dissertation research focuses on the recent expansion of mangroves into salt marsh territory on Florida's Gulf Coast. I am exploring the factors driving changes in the spatial arrangement of mangrove forests, and documenting changes in soil properties that occur as a result of mangrove encroachment. Because mangroves are expanding poleward following changes in climate and sea level, I hope that my work will be used to predict changes in wetland ecosystem dynamics on a global scale.
María C. Cerón-Castill Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Prevost Tampa campus ceronm@usf.edu	I graduated with a B.S. in Microbiology from Universidad de Los Andes in my native Colombia, I was a Smithsonian Environmental Research Center Intern, and I hold an M.S. in Resources Management in the Tropics from Cologne University of Applied of Sciences. I have worked with International Cooperation as well as environmental Non-Governmental Organizations in Latin America. I have been an instructor for some time, and l love teaching. This is my first year as a Graduate student, I joined Dr. Prevost Laboratory for Biology Education Research. My interests include innovative approaches for ecology education, as well as community engagement approaches for coastal landscape management and restoration. Currently, I am working with the SEEDS Program of the Ecological Society of America (ESA), understanding the perceptions and impacts of their activities for the next generation ecologists.
Claire Crookston Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Deban Tampa campus ccrookston@usf.edu	My research interests include comparative osteology, biomechanics, and life history variation of plethodontid (lungless) salamanders. In the Deban lab, I hope to incorporate my interests into understanding the diversity of feeding modes in salamanders and how hyobranchial morphology affects tongue projection and performance. In 2019, I obtained my Bachelor’s in Zoology from Colorado State University and recently graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with a Master’s in Biology. I am excited to be getting my Ph.D. from the IB department here at USF so I can continue studying herps/amphibians and take advantage of the animal diversity and beautiful weather of south Florida!
Louis Coticchio Program: M.S. Supervisor: Cassill St Petersburg campus lcoticchio@usf.edu	I am currently a first-year graduate student in the M.S. for Conservation Biology at the USF St. Petersburg campus. Over the last 3 years I have been studying as an undergraduate the negative impacts that the non-native spider species Latrodectus geometricus (brown widows) have had on the local species of Latrodectus mactans (Southern black widows). I have also been studying the introduction of non-native species of Loxosceles (recluse spiders) into Florida habitats, mostly in urban and suburban areas. For my graduate research, I will focus mostly on the genus Loxosceles with a special focus on Loxosceles rufescens (Mediterranean recluse spiders) and investigating their possible introduction into certain areas of Florida by means of hitchhiking into the state through cargo shipments, vacationers, and people visiting the Mediterranean area. I will also be studying the possible overdiagnoses of recluse spider bites in areas where recluse spiders are not native, namely Florida, and using data collected from verified populations I have inspected, as well as previous diagnosed bites to determine whether there is an overuse of recluse spiders as a diagnosis for most necrotic wounds that develop in areas where recluse spiders are not native, and therefore other diagnoses must be considered.
Meghan Craft Program: M.S. Supervisor: Doody St. Petersburg campus meghancraft@usf.edu	I am a second year master's student in the Conservation Biology graduate program. My thesis focuses on gopher tortoises and their ability to compensate for climate change through nest-site choice. I also conducted research focused on early hatching in snakes in my first year at USF.
Dennis Deeken Program: M.S. Supervisor: Cassill St. Petersburg campus dennisdeeken@usf.edu	I am a current MS students in the Conservation Biology program at USF. My research interests include the ecology and conservation of elasmobranchs. Specifically my research will be focusing on evolutionary vs ecological influences on maternal investment across shark species as well as doing micro satellite work on blacknose sharks. I hope to be able to assess population levels and genetic variability among a species of shark frequently used for recreational and commercial purposes but has had little monitoring.
Carley DeFilips Program: M.S. Supervisor: Lewis Tampa campus cdefillips@usf.edu	I previously attended USF as an undergraduate where I graduated with a B.S. in Environmental Biology. I am currently pursuing a M.S. in Biology with Dr. David Lewis. My research interests include ecosystem ecology and biogeochemical cycling. My master’s thesis will examine the persistence and movement of microplastics through freshwater environments.
Haley H. Depner Program: M.S. Supervisor: Cassill St. Petersburg campus depner@usf.edu	I am a second year Masters student in the Conservation Biology program. My area of interest is sociobiology. I am working on expanding game theory using agent-based simulations. My goal is to better understand underlying mechanisms of altruism and cooperation in social organisms. On the side, I work with Dr. Cassill studying ant behavior exploring socio-behavioral mechanisms within colonies and their impacts on survival of colony members. Soon I will be expanding to studying socio-behavioral mechanisms between colonies as well. https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-depner/
Sarita Emmanuel Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Lewis Tampa campus skemmanuel@usf.edu	I am currently a Ph.D. student with the Lewis Lab in the Integrative Biology Department. Prior to this I completed my M.Sc. in Wetland Science and Conservation at Bangor University, North Wales. I previously worked on the soil biogeochemistry of natural wetlands: peatland and mangrove swamps. I am originally from Trinidad and Tobago, and I am familiar with the implications of coastal stressors on deteriorating wetland areas of island systems.
Emily Galbraith Program: M.S. Supervisor: Gainsbury St. Petersburg campus galbraith@usf.edu	I am studying environmental DNA in the Conservation Biology program. EDNA as a passive survey method can detect organisms like forensic science detects suspects at crime scenes, and my research shows that it can successfully detect Eastern Indigo snakes from soil samples. I'm interested in how this method of detection can answer ecological questions about this elusive species.
Matt Gamache Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Parkinson Tampa campus mhgamache@usf.edu	I joined the Parkinson lab at USF in 2020 to use molecular tools in order to relate how the genomes of corals and their algal symbionts affect their response to climate change. Some research plans include observing the level to which corals adapt or evolve (or both) to climate-induced thermal stress. Additionally, I plan to use environmental DNA (eDNA) to observe coral biodiversity patterns with different levels of impact, including hurricane damage. I previously used eDNA to detect the presence of Hippocampus seahorses in Tampa Bay and The Bahamas during my undergraduate career at the University of Tampa, where I earned my B.S. in Marine Science-Biology. Throughout my time at UT and USF, I have always emphasized science communication, and I find great value in teaching.
Pablo Garcia Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Deban Tampa campus pablogarcia@usf.edu	My research focuses on the cranial biomechanics of lizards, including biting and skull kinesis. I have studied the effects of bite out-lever and gape angle on bite-force performance in the brown anole and plan to expand my studies to include lizards with more pronounced cranial kinesis and complex jaw mechanics.
Colin Goodman Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Deban Tampa campus colingoodman@usf.edu	I joined the Department of Integrative Biology in the Fall of 2020, after receiving an M.S. from the University of Florida. At UF, I used the ongoing invasion of the tropical clawed frog to examine how individual differences in dispersal-related traits can be spatially selected during the process of range expansion. I am interested in intra- and interspecific variation in the morphological and physiological traits related to dispersal. Specifically, I am interested in how trade-offs can constrain or facilitate variation in such traits.
Adriana Gonzalez Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Harwood Tampa campus gfa@usf.edu	My research focuses on improving methods for characterizing microbial water quality in tropical and sub-tropical regions, as a means to improve the management of coastal ecosystems. My dissertation research will be focused on the relationship between microbial pathogens and indicators at a polluted, tropical beach. My research is part of a larger, US National Science Foundation-funded investigation, entitled the MERA Investigation.
Christopher Grissett Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Prevost Tampa campus cgrisset@usf.edu	I graduated with a B.S. in Biology from St. Petersburg College and an M.S. in Marine Biology from Nova Southeastern University. I have been an instructor for various institutions for the past 7 years and has conducted research with manatees for his masters and as a freelance contractor. In August 2017 I joined the Prevost Lab for Biology Education Research, to pursue a PhD studying how students understand and learn food web dynamics.
Sarah Guzinski Program: M.S. Supervisor: Carney Tampa campus sguzinski@usf.edu	My name is Sarah and I am a new graduate student to the Integrative Biology department, currently pursuing my master's degree in Dr. Carney's lab. I intend to complete my thesis on the anatomy, morphology, and kinematics of flightless bird wings in effort to understand their phylogenetic significance. I will be using digital 3D reconstruction techniques in order to create images of the anatomy as well as implementing joint surface analysis to understand the kinematics behind it. As the transition between flightless to flying birds is a key evolutionary landmark, taking a look into the anatomy of extant species may help in part to bridge the gap in research of this kind.
Elizabeth Hauck Program: M.S. Supervisor: Gainsbury St. Petersburg campus ehauck@usf.edu	I am a first-year Master's student in the Conservation Biology program, working with Dr. Alison Gainsbury. My thesis is on ecotoxicology in reptiles. Specifically, I am researching heavy metal contamination in brown and green anoles across an urbanization gradient, and how this affects their reproduction and development. I previously earned by undergraduate degree in Zoology and Ecology from James Cook University, focusing my studies on tropical ecosystems.
Sam Hirst Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Margres Tampa campus hirsts@usf.edu	I graduated with a B.S. in Genetics, Genomics, and Biotechnology from Brigham Young University (Provo, Utah) in April 2021 where I studied the use of eDNA to assess the effects of wildfires on aquatic biodiversity. I joined the Margres lab at USF Tampa in Fall of 2021 and am interested in using genomics and other techniques to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying rattlesnake venom variation at multiple scales.
Matz Indergard Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Parkinson Tampa campus matzindergard@usf.edu	I joined the Parkinson lab in 2022 to investigate how intraspecific variation among endosymbionts effects host tolerance. I developed a fascination with corals and their endosymbionts while completing a Research Experience for Undergraduates in Little Cayman Island while attending Southern Utah University. After acquiring my undergraduate degree, I moved to the Florida Keys, where he worked to restore degraded reefs with the Coral Restoration Foundation. My experience with coral nursery work and population genetics propelled me into the Master’s program at the University of North Florida. There I tested the activation of thermal plasticity as a potential tool for coral restoration. At USF, I plan to study how intraspecific variation within endosymbionts influences host resilience.
Nathali Jimenez Quiroga Program: M.S. Supervisor: Zalamea Tampa campus nathali@usf.edu	I am a Colombian biologist with concentrations in molecular biology and biotechnology. Throughout my career I have found great passion in microbiology, especially in its applications in agriculture, restoration ecology and bioremediation. As a master’s student in Dr. Zalamea’s Lab I hope to further understand the complex plant-microbe interactions, as a basis for developing applications that can help us face challenges related to climate change, anthropogenic disturbances, and food safety issues. I consider myself a loving, kind, empathetic person and a responsible and committed professional who is always trying to give her best to achieve her own goals and help others. Apart from science I enjoy practicing different arts and crafts, cooking, baking, and learning from different cultures and languages.
Theron Kantelis Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Carney Tampa campus kantelist@usf.edu	I’m a first-year Ph.D. student in the Carney Lab. My research will be on the diet and dentition of Archaeopteryx. I’ll be making use of a variety of methodologies, both morphological and functional, to synthesize a reconstruction of its diet. Details of its dental morphology may also elucidate potential phylogenetic differences between the various specimens. I previously earned my MS in Geosciences concentrating in Vertebrate Paleontology at East Tennessee State University where I studied the tooth morphology of Brown and Black Bears.
Alexander Kirk Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Carney Tampa campus akirk@usf.edu	I am pursuing a PhD in Integrative Biology (Physiology and Morphology) at the University of South Florida - Tampa. My current research focuses on using digital techniques to build a scientifically accurate 3D reconstruction of Archaeopteryx using a combination of photogrammetry and X-ray data. This digital model will be used to improve our anatomical understanding of this iconic specimen through 3D geometric morphometrics and functional morphology of joint surfaces.
Christopher Klein Program: M.S. Supervisor: Cassill St. Petersburg campus kleinc1@usf.edu	Hi, my name is Chris, and I am pursuing my MS in Conservation Biology. My research is focused on the behavior and conservation of cetaceans. I am working to quantitatively analyze the interspecific altruistic behavior of Humpback whales (specifically during killer whale predation events), as well as produce a comparative analysis on the maternal investment strategies of other cetacean species.
Cody Letts Program: M.S. Supervisor: Whitmore St. Petersburg campus cletts1@usf.edu	I am in my first year as a Conservation Biology student. My research interests include water quality, specifically limnological studies.
Aldo Lobos Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Harwood Tampa campus aldo2@usf.edu	I am a environmental microbiologist enrolled in the PhD program and advised by Dr. Harwood. My research is primarily focused on the persistence of human-associated genetic markers through wastewater treatment and their implications in microbial source tracking efforts around Tampa, Florida.
Noreen Mathews Program: M.S. Supervisor: Bell Tampa campus noreenmathew@usf.edu	I received my B.S. in Marine Biology from the University of South Florida and I am now pursuing an M.S. to further study coastal and estuarine ecology. I am originally from Maryland and worked for a bit in freshwater systems with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources after completing my undergraduate degree. I hope to more closely examine the relationship between mangroves and oysters, and how their dynamics affect their surrounding community. I intend for my research to help provide better resources for future conservation management endeavors.
Preston J. McDonald Program: PhD Supervisor: Margres Tampa campus mcdonaldp@usf.edu	My current research a focuses on the coevolution of venom and venom resistance in rattlesnakes and their prey. I have also been involved in research on the community ecology and microbiomes of paleotropical bats, species distribution and delimitation in blind Texas cave spiders, and conservation assessments of a rare Texas rodent population. Before coming to USF, I earned undergraduate and Master's degrees in biology from Texas Tech University.
Kate McLendon Program: M.S. Supervisor: Gemmel Tampa campus kmclendon@usf.edu	I received my B.S. in Biology from the University of Central Florida in 2022. While there, I worked on different projects regarding electric fish, microplastics, and oyster reefs with mangrove encroachment. As a master’s student in Dr. Gemmell’s lab, I hope to focus on small-scale reef ecology, specifically coral feeding and particle capture.
Mike Mills Program: M.S. Supervisor: Doody St. Petersburg campus mmills6@usf.edu	Originally from St. Louis, MO, I am currently studying the ecology of Florida Box Turtles on a barrier island in Southwest Florida. Using radio telemetry, we can track the movements and habits of not only the native population, but a reintroduced population that was rescued from a poaching ring. Studying these reintroduced turtles and comparing their behavior to the native population will give us data that could help future rescued turtles.
Eva Muir Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Kramer Tampa campus evamuir@usf.edu	I received my B.S. in Animal Behavior and Wildlife Conservation from the University of Wolverhampton, and my M.S. in Applied Wildlife Conservation from Anglia Ruskin University in the UK. I am now studying for my PhD in the Kramer Lab - I am interested in the population ecology of low-density populations which exhibit positive density dependence, and my research involves using theoretical modelling and experimental approaches to investigate the evolutionary interactions between mate-finding traits and predator avoidance in low-density populations of zooplankton.
Andrea Murray Program: M.S. Supervisor: Judkins St. Petersburg campus andreamurray@usf.edu	Hello, I'm Andie! I am currently pursuing my Master’s in the Conservation Biology program. I am working with Dr. Heather Judkins, and it is my hope to examine Eastern oyster beds with a focus on microplastic ingestion along with general water quality and potential changes with seasonality. I graduated from The Ohio State University with a BS in Zoology and have been part of The Florida Aquarium team since 2015. I focused on sustainable seafood as well as conservation education which sparked my interest in bioaccumulation of marine debris.
Fargam Neinavaie Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Kramer Tampa campus fargam@usf.edu
Dana Nieuwkerk Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Harwood Tampa campus dnieuwke@usf.edu
Sofia Ocampo Program: M.S. Supervisor: Zalamea Tampa campus ocampos2@usf.edu	I am a plant ecologist interested in the biodiversity of non-pathogenic fungal endophytes in natural ecosystems, especially root endophytes (mycorrhizae). I study this system with the hope that this information can be integrated into disturbance mitigation of threatened ecosystems.
Gabriela Quesada Avila Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Zalamea Tampa campus gquesadaavila@usf.edu	I am a Costa Rican tropical biologist graduated from the Universidad Nacional of Costa Rica. My main research interests are on the ecology and dynamics of complex plant and soil interactions in tropical ecosystems. As a PhD student in Dr. Zalamea’s lab, I would like to deepen into the mechanisms behind plant-soil-microorganisms interactions and how they are translated into the adaptation and survival of plant communities and their implications on the ecosystem level. When I'm not nerding about biotic interactions I enjoy martial arts, painting, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Sheila Scolaro Program: M.S. Supervisor: Riedinger-Whitmore St. Petersburg campus sscolaro@usf.edu	I graduated with a B.S in Plant Science from the University of Florida and I am currently a graduate student in the Conservation Biology program. Prior to pursuing a graduate degree, I was part of a team who researched seagrass ecology and water quality throughout the Florida Gulf Coast. Presently, my research is centered around seagrass reproductive ecology and phylogeny. Specifically, I investigate sexual reproductive effort and life history dynamics of the seagrass Thalassia testudinum to understand overall seagrass habitat health in Tampa Bay, Florida.
Alex Seigel Program: M.S. Supervisor: Cassill St. Petersburg campus alexs210@usf.edu	I am currently looking at the use of environmental DNA in pre- and post-restoration sites (Robinson Preserve and Alligator Creek) to measure the biodiversity of the water system compared to traditional seine netting. We are also looking to see if any unknown/elusive native (sharks, rays, etc.) or invasive (walking catfish, aquaria species, lionfish, etc.) species have been utilizing these habitats as those need to be factored into measuring the overall success of the restoration itself. I am hoping to better understand the pros and cons of utilizing eDNA alongside seine nets when measuring biodiversity of tidally influenced water systems.
Austin Smith Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Kramer Tampa campus amsmith11@usf.edu	I am a Ph.D. student and research assistant in the Kramer Lab. My research interests include implementing mathematical/statistical techniques to ecological data in order to understand species invasions, niche structure/ habitat suitability, and epidemiological pathways. My current research involves environmental degradation by invasive waterfowl, Coronavirus transmission network analysis, and creating biologically informative machine learning algorithms.
Maki Tabuchi Program: Ph.D. Supervisor: Harwood Tampa campus mtabuchi@usf.edu
Daniela Varon Garcia Program: M.S. Supervisor: Zalamea Tampa campus danielavaron@usf.edu	I am a Colombian biologist currently pursuing a master’s degree with Dr. Camilo Zalamea. My research interests focus on the processes that maintain plant diversity. Specifically, I am fascinated by how microbial interactions with plants can influence forest dynamics in terms of plant function and species distributions. My research involves field and/or greenhouse experiments and molecular ecology, including next-gen sequencing and culturing, to study microbial communities associated with plants.
Shea Volkel Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Kramer Tampa campus sheavolkel@usf.edu	I am a PhD student in Dr. Kramer’s lab (joined August 2019). My research focuses on invasive species, species interactions, population dynamics, and spatial ecology in large aquatic systems. I am currently investigating the spatial and trophic dynamics of invasive lionfish and regal demoiselle in the Gulf of Mexico, along with the ecological interactions among these invasive species and native fishes.
Lauren Walling Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Parkinson/ Richards Tampa campus laurenwalling@usf.edu	I am excited to be a Ph.D student, co-advised by both Dr. Richards and Dr. Parkinson. Through my Ph.D research I plan to examine how DNA methylation changes within symbionts of Cnidarians. I also plan to research how changes to the epigenome of a holobiont is affected by different environmental factors, such as temperature or pH. Prior to my time here at USF, I received my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana in Molecular and Cellular Biology. I then obtained my master’s degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette where I studied DNA methylation in deep-sea Octocorals.
Jana Wieschollek Program: Ph. D. Supervisor: Scott Tampa campus jwieschollek@usf.edu	Hey, I am Jana and I am a graduated student from Germany! I am a PhD student at Dr. Scott’s lab. My earlier research includes work on the biochemistry of army ants and their parasites as an undergraduate student and a Master Thesis focused on mitigation of the Florida Red Tide organism Karenia Brevis via algicidal bacteria. My PhD project is going to focus on genetically interesting bacteria. These bacteria produce Carboxysome microcompartments, which help the organism with CO2-fixation. Interestingly, the bacteria seem to miss genetic information for important enzymes that are necessary for CO2-fixation. I hope to solve some puzzle pieces in this paradox for a better understanding of those organisms. A better understanding could lead to multiple applications, such as bioengineered CO2 fixation (not part of Scott’s lab research).
Zachary Winstead Program: M.S. Supervisor: Doody St. Petersburg campus zwinstead@usf.edu	My name is Zachary Winstead and I am a masters student in the Conservation Biology program. I am currently researching hatching behaviors in lizards. In the future I look to continue research studying the behavior and ecology of a wide range of different reptiles.

Student

Research Bio

Jessica Balerna

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Lewis
Tampa campus
jbalerna@usf.edu

jbalerna

My dissertation will examine the relationships between water management and wetland condition utilizing both ecologic and ethnographic data.

I will ask questions about the impacts of land-use and groundwater extraction on wetlands’ hydroperiod, groundwater quality, and soil properties as well as about how residents and managers perceive and react to wetland ecohydrological change.

Eleanor Brodrick

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Harwood
Tampa campus
ebrodrick@usf.edu

ebrodrick

My name is Eleanor Brodrick and I am a Master’s student in the lab of Dr. Harwood. My research interests revolve around environmental microbiology.

I am interested in performing research on the naturalization of fecal indicator bacteria in the environment.

I will be studying the process of naturalization, what strains survive best, as well as the persistence of other bacteria and fecal markers.

Christian Brown

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Deban
Tampa campus
cbrown43@usf.edu

I am pursuing a PhD in the IB Department at the University of South Florida. My research interests include the movements of amphibians, especially plethodontid salamanders, ranging from fine-scale biomechanics of locomotion to dispersal at the ecosystem level.

I'm currently studying the mechanisms by which plethodontid salamanders jump, how different mechanisms influence performance, and the underlying ecomorphological implications. In the past I have monitored the migration of breeding spotted salamanders in Kentucky, conducted population-level fitness analyses on tiger salamanders in the Rockies, and tracked the habitat use and movements of plethodontids in northern California over space and time using PIT-telemetry.

Emily Birdsall-Woodard

Program:
Supervisor:
St Petersburg campus
ebirdsall@usf.edu

Jeanette Calarco

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Harwood
Tampa campus
jcalarco@usf.edu

I am currently a PhD student in Dr. Harwood’s lab. Before joining the lab as a graduate student, I worked as a lab technician on a CDC-funded project researching critical barriers to antibiotic resistant ESKAPE pathogens in reclaimed water treatment trains.

I have not yet determined what my research project will be, but I would like to stay within the topic of antibiotic resistant pathogens in the environment.

Cassandra Campbell

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Lewis
Tampa campus
cacampbell@usf.edu

ccampbell240

I study how climate change drives shifts in vegetation in wetland communities, and investigate the resulting changes in plant-soil dynamics. My current dissertation research focuses on the recent expansion of mangroves into salt marsh territory on Florida's Gulf Coast. I am exploring the factors driving changes in the spatial arrangement of mangrove forests, and documenting changes in soil properties that occur as a result of mangrove encroachment. Because mangroves are expanding poleward following changes in climate and sea level, I hope that my work will be used to predict changes in wetland ecosystem dynamics on a global scale.

María C. Cerón-Castill

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Prevost
Tampa campus
ceronm@usf.edu

meghan craft

I graduated with a B.S. in Microbiology from Universidad de Los Andes in my native Colombia, I was a Smithsonian Environmental Research Center Intern, and I hold an M.S. in Resources Management in the Tropics from Cologne University of Applied of Sciences.

I have worked with International Cooperation as well as environmental Non-Governmental Organizations in Latin America. I have been an instructor for some time, and l love teaching.

This is my first year as a Graduate student, I joined Dr. Prevost Laboratory for Biology Education Research. My interests include innovative approaches for ecology education, as well as community engagement approaches for coastal landscape management and restoration. Currently, I am working with the SEEDS Program of the Ecological Society of America (ESA), understanding the perceptions and impacts of their activities for the next generation ecologists.

Claire Crookston

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Deban
Tampa campus
ccrookston@usf.edu

ccrookston

My research interests include comparative osteology, biomechanics, and life history variation of plethodontid (lungless) salamanders.

In the Deban lab, I hope to incorporate my interests into understanding the diversity of feeding modes in salamanders and how hyobranchial morphology affects tongue projection and performance.

In 2019, I obtained my Bachelor’s in Zoology from Colorado State University and recently graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with a Master’s in Biology.

I am excited to be getting my Ph.D. from the IB department here at USF so I can continue studying herps/amphibians and take advantage of the animal diversity and beautiful weather of south Florida!

Louis Coticchio

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Cassill
St Petersburg campus
lcoticchio@usf.edu

louis coticchio

I am currently a first-year graduate student in the M.S. for Conservation Biology at the USF St. Petersburg campus. Over the last 3 years I have been studying as an undergraduate the negative impacts that the non-native spider species Latrodectus geometricus (brown widows) have had on the local species of Latrodectus mactans (Southern black widows). I have also been studying the introduction of non-native species of Loxosceles (recluse spiders) into Florida habitats, mostly in urban and suburban areas.

For my graduate research, I will focus mostly on the genus Loxosceles with a special focus on Loxosceles rufescens (Mediterranean recluse spiders) and investigating their possible introduction into certain areas of Florida by means of hitchhiking into the state through cargo shipments, vacationers, and people visiting the Mediterranean area. I will also be studying the possible overdiagnoses of recluse spider bites in areas where recluse spiders are not native, namely Florida, and using data collected from verified populations I have inspected, as well as previous diagnosed bites to determine whether there is an overuse of recluse spiders as a diagnosis for most necrotic wounds that develop in areas where recluse spiders are not native, and therefore other diagnoses must be considered.

Meghan Craft

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Doody
St. Petersburg campus
meghancraft@usf.edu

meghan craft

I am a second year master's student in the Conservation Biology graduate program. My thesis focuses on gopher tortoises and their ability to compensate for climate change through nest-site choice.

I also conducted research focused on early hatching in snakes in my first year at USF.

Dennis Deeken

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Cassill
St. Petersburg campus
dennisdeeken@usf.edu

ddeeken

I am a current MS students in the Conservation Biology program at USF. My research interests include the ecology and conservation of elasmobranchs.

Specifically my research will be focusing on evolutionary vs ecological influences on maternal investment across shark species as well as doing micro satellite work on blacknose sharks.

I hope to be able to assess population levels and genetic variability among a species of shark frequently used for recreational and commercial purposes but has had little monitoring.

Carley DeFilips

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Lewis
Tampa campus
cdefillips@usf.edu

Carely DeFilips

I previously attended USF as an undergraduate where I graduated with a B.S. in Environmental Biology. I am currently pursuing a M.S. in Biology with Dr. David Lewis.

My research interests include ecosystem ecology and biogeochemical cycling. My master’s thesis will examine the persistence and movement of microplastics through freshwater environments.

Haley H. Depner

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Cassill
St. Petersburg campus
depner@usf.edu

Haley Depner

I am a second year Masters student in the Conservation Biology program. My area of interest is sociobiology. I am working on expanding game theory using agent-based simulations.

My goal is to better understand underlying mechanisms of altruism and cooperation in social organisms. On the side, I work with Dr. Cassill studying ant behavior exploring socio-behavioral mechanisms within colonies and their impacts on survival of colony members.

Soon I will be expanding to studying socio-behavioral mechanisms between colonies as well.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-depner/

Sarita Emmanuel

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Lewis
Tampa campus
skemmanuel@usf.edu

I am currently a Ph.D. student with the Lewis Lab in the Integrative Biology Department. Prior to this I completed my M.Sc. in Wetland Science and Conservation at Bangor University, North Wales.

I previously worked on the soil biogeochemistry of natural wetlands: peatland and mangrove swamps. I am originally from Trinidad and Tobago, and I am familiar with the implications of coastal stressors on deteriorating wetland areas of island systems.

Emily Galbraith

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Gainsbury
St. Petersburg campus
galbraith@usf.edu

egalbraith

I am studying environmental DNA in the Conservation Biology program.

EDNA as a passive survey method can detect organisms like forensic science detects suspects at crime scenes, and my research shows that it can successfully detect Eastern Indigo snakes from soil samples.

I'm interested in how this method of detection can answer ecological questions about this elusive species.

Matt Gamache

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Parkinson
Tampa campus
mhgamache@usf.edu

matt gamache

I joined the Parkinson lab at USF in 2020 to use molecular tools in order to relate how the genomes of corals and their algal symbionts affect their response to climate change. Some research plans include observing the level to which corals adapt or evolve (or both) to climate-induced thermal stress.

Additionally, I plan to use environmental DNA (eDNA) to observe coral biodiversity patterns with different levels of impact, including hurricane damage. I previously used eDNA to detect the presence of Hippocampus seahorses in Tampa Bay and The Bahamas during my undergraduate career at the University of Tampa, where I earned my B.S. in Marine Science-Biology.

Throughout my time at UT and USF, I have always emphasized science communication, and I find great value in teaching.

Pablo Garcia

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Deban
Tampa campus
pablogarcia@usf.edu

My research focuses on the cranial biomechanics of lizards, including biting and skull kinesis.

I have studied the effects of bite out-lever and gape angle on bite-force performance in the brown anole and plan to expand my studies to include lizards with more pronounced cranial kinesis and complex jaw mechanics.

Colin Goodman

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Deban
Tampa campus
colingoodman@usf.edu cgoodman

I joined the Department of Integrative Biology in the Fall of 2020, after receiving an M.S. from the University of Florida. At UF, I used the ongoing invasion of the tropical clawed frog to examine how individual differences in dispersal-related traits can be spatially selected during the process of range expansion.

I am interested in intra- and interspecific variation in the morphological and physiological traits related to dispersal. Specifically, I am interested in how trade-offs can constrain or facilitate variation in such traits.

Adriana Gonzalez

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Harwood
Tampa campus
gfa@usf.edu

My research focuses on improving methods for characterizing microbial water quality in tropical and sub-tropical regions, as a means to improve the management of coastal ecosystems.

My dissertation research will be focused on the relationship between microbial pathogens and indicators at a polluted, tropical beach. My research is part of a larger, US National Science Foundation-funded investigation, entitled the MERA Investigation.

Christopher Grissett

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Prevost
Tampa campus
cgrisset@usf.edu

cgrissett 240

I graduated with a B.S. in Biology from St. Petersburg College and an M.S. in Marine Biology from Nova Southeastern University.

I have been an instructor for various institutions for the past 7 years and has conducted research with manatees for his masters and as a freelance contractor.

In August 2017 I joined the Prevost Lab for Biology Education Research, to pursue a PhD studying how students understand and learn food web dynamics.

Sarah Guzinski

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Carney
Tampa campus
sguzinski@usf.edu

sguzinski

My name is Sarah and I am a new graduate student to the Integrative Biology department, currently pursuing my master's degree in Dr. Carney's lab.

I intend to complete my thesis on the anatomy, morphology, and kinematics of flightless bird wings in effort to understand their phylogenetic significance.

I will be using digital 3D reconstruction techniques in order to create images of the anatomy as well as implementing joint surface analysis to understand the kinematics behind it.

As the transition between flightless to flying birds is a key evolutionary landmark, taking a look into the anatomy of extant species may help in part to bridge the gap in research of this kind.

Elizabeth Hauck

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Gainsbury
St. Petersburg campus
ehauck@usf.edu

ehauck

I am a first-year Master's student in the Conservation Biology program, working with Dr. Alison Gainsbury.

My thesis is on ecotoxicology in reptiles. Specifically, I am researching heavy metal contamination in brown and green anoles across an urbanization gradient, and how this affects their reproduction and development.

I previously earned by undergraduate degree in Zoology and Ecology from James Cook University, focusing my studies on tropical ecosystems.

Sam Hirst

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Margres
Tampa campus
hirsts@usf.edu

I graduated with a B.S. in Genetics, Genomics, and Biotechnology from Brigham Young University (Provo, Utah) in April 2021 where I studied the use of eDNA to assess the effects of wildfires on aquatic biodiversity.

I joined the Margres lab at USF Tampa in Fall of 2021 and am interested in using genomics and other techniques to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying rattlesnake venom variation at multiple scales.

Matz Indergard

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Parkinson
Tampa campus
matzindergard@usf.edu

matzindergard

I joined the Parkinson lab in 2022 to investigate how intraspecific variation among endosymbionts effects host tolerance.

I developed a fascination with corals and their endosymbionts while completing a Research Experience for Undergraduates in Little Cayman Island while attending Southern Utah University.

After acquiring my undergraduate degree, I moved to the Florida Keys, where he worked to restore degraded reefs with the Coral Restoration Foundation.

My experience with coral nursery work and population genetics propelled me into the Master’s program at the University of North Florida. There I tested the activation of thermal plasticity as a potential tool for coral restoration.

At USF, I plan to study how intraspecific variation within endosymbionts influences host resilience.

Nathali Jimenez Quiroga

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Zalamea
Tampa campus
nathali@usf.edu

nathali jimenez q

I am a Colombian biologist with concentrations in molecular biology and biotechnology. Throughout my career I have found great passion in microbiology, especially in its applications in agriculture, restoration ecology and bioremediation.

As a master’s student in Dr. Zalamea’s Lab I hope to further understand the complex plant-microbe interactions, as a basis for developing applications that can help us face challenges related to climate change, anthropogenic disturbances, and food safety issues.

I consider myself a loving, kind, empathetic person and a responsible and committed professional who is always trying to give her best to achieve her own goals and help others. Apart from science I enjoy practicing different arts and crafts, cooking, baking, and learning from different cultures and languages.

Theron Kantelis

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Carney
Tampa campus
kantelist@usf.edu

I’m a first-year Ph.D. student in the Carney Lab. My research will be on the diet and dentition of Archaeopteryx. I’ll be making use of a variety of methodologies, both morphological and functional, to synthesize a reconstruction of its diet. Details of its dental morphology may also elucidate potential phylogenetic differences between the various specimens.

I previously earned my MS in Geosciences concentrating in Vertebrate Paleontology at East Tennessee State University where I studied the tooth morphology of Brown and Black Bears.

Alexander Kirk

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Carney
Tampa campus
akirk@usf.edu

I am pursuing a PhD in Integrative Biology (Physiology and Morphology) at the University of South Florida - Tampa. My current research focuses on using digital techniques to build a scientifically accurate 3D reconstruction of Archaeopteryx using a combination of photogrammetry and X-ray data. This digital model will be used to improve our anatomical understanding of this iconic specimen through 3D geometric morphometrics and functional morphology of joint surfaces.

Christopher Klein

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Cassill
St. Petersburg campus
kleinc1@usf.edu

cklein

Hi, my name is Chris, and I am pursuing my MS in Conservation Biology. My research is focused on the behavior and conservation of cetaceans.

I am working to quantitatively analyze the interspecific altruistic behavior of Humpback whales (specifically during killer whale predation events), as well as produce a comparative analysis on the maternal investment strategies of other cetacean species.

Cody Letts

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Whitmore
St. Petersburg campus
cletts1@usf.edu

codyletts

I am in my first year as a Conservation Biology student.

My research interests include water quality, specifically limnological studies.

Aldo Lobos

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Harwood
Tampa campus
aldo2@usf.edu

aldolobos

I am a environmental microbiologist enrolled in the PhD program and advised by Dr. Harwood.

My research is primarily focused on the persistence of human-associated genetic markers through wastewater treatment and their implications in microbial source tracking efforts around Tampa, Florida.

Noreen Mathews

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Bell
Tampa campus
noreenmathew@usf.edu

I received my B.S. in Marine Biology from the University of South Florida and I am now pursuing an M.S. to further study coastal and estuarine ecology. I am originally from Maryland and worked for a bit in freshwater systems with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources after completing my undergraduate degree.

I hope to more closely examine the relationship between mangroves and oysters, and how their dynamics affect their surrounding community. I intend for my research to help provide better resources for future conservation management endeavors.

Preston J. McDonald

Program: PhD
Supervisor: Margres
Tampa campus
mcdonaldp@usf.edu

preston mcdonald

My current research a focuses on the coevolution of venom and venom resistance in rattlesnakes and their prey.

I have also been involved in research on the community ecology and microbiomes of paleotropical bats, species distribution and delimitation in blind Texas cave spiders, and conservation assessments of a rare Texas rodent population.

Before coming to USF, I earned undergraduate and Master's degrees in biology from Texas Tech University.

Kate McLendon

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Gemmel
Tampa campus
kmclendon@usf.edu

kmclendon

I received my B.S. in Biology from the University of Central Florida in 2022.

While there, I worked on different projects regarding electric fish, microplastics, and oyster reefs with mangrove encroachment.

As a master’s student in Dr. Gemmell’s lab, I hope to focus on small-scale reef ecology, specifically coral feeding and particle capture.

Mike Mills

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Doody
St. Petersburg campus
mmills6@usf.edu

mmills

Originally from St. Louis, MO, I am currently studying the ecology of Florida Box Turtles on a barrier island in Southwest Florida.

Using radio telemetry, we can track the movements and habits of not only the native population, but a reintroduced population that was rescued from a poaching ring.

Studying these reintroduced turtles and comparing their behavior to the native population will give us data that could help future rescued turtles.

Eva Muir

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Kramer
Tampa campus
evamuir@usf.edu

I received my B.S. in Animal Behavior and Wildlife Conservation from the University of Wolverhampton, and my M.S. in Applied Wildlife Conservation from Anglia Ruskin University in the UK.

I am now studying for my PhD in the Kramer Lab - I am interested in the population ecology of low-density populations which exhibit positive density dependence, and my research involves using theoretical modelling and experimental approaches to investigate the evolutionary interactions between mate-finding traits and predator avoidance in low-density populations of zooplankton.

Andrea Murray

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Judkins
St. Petersburg campus
andreamurray@usf.edu

andrea murray

Hello, I'm Andie! I am currently pursuing my Master’s in the Conservation Biology program. I am working with Dr. Heather Judkins, and it is my hope to examine Eastern oyster beds with a focus on microplastic ingestion along with general water quality and potential changes with seasonality.

I graduated from The Ohio State University with a BS in Zoology and have been part of The Florida Aquarium team since 2015.

I focused on sustainable seafood as well as conservation education which sparked my interest in bioaccumulation of marine debris.

Fargam Neinavaie

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Kramer
Tampa campus
fargam@usf.edu

Dana Nieuwkerk

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Harwood
Tampa campus
dnieuwke@usf.edu

Sofia Ocampo

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Zalamea
Tampa campus
ocampos2@usf.edu

socampo

I am a plant ecologist interested in the biodiversity of non-pathogenic fungal endophytes in natural ecosystems, especially root endophytes (mycorrhizae).

I study this system with the hope that this information can be integrated into disturbance mitigation of threatened ecosystems.

Gabriela Quesada Avila

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Zalamea
Tampa campus
gquesadaavila@usf.edu

gabiqa

I am a Costa Rican tropical biologist graduated from the Universidad Nacional of Costa Rica.

My main research interests are on the ecology and dynamics of complex plant and soil interactions in tropical ecosystems.

As a PhD student in Dr. Zalamea’s lab, I would like to deepen into the mechanisms behind plant-soil-microorganisms interactions and how they are translated into the adaptation and survival of plant communities and their implications on the ecosystem level.

When I'm not nerding about biotic interactions I enjoy martial arts, painting, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Sheila Scolaro

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Riedinger-Whitmore
St. Petersburg campus
sscolaro@usf.edu

sscolaro

I graduated with a B.S in Plant Science from the University of Florida and I am currently a graduate student in the Conservation Biology program.

Prior to pursuing a graduate degree, I was part of a team who researched seagrass ecology and water quality throughout the Florida Gulf Coast. Presently, my research is centered around seagrass reproductive ecology and phylogeny.

Specifically, I investigate sexual reproductive effort and life history dynamics of the seagrass Thalassia testudinum to understand overall seagrass habitat health in Tampa Bay, Florida.

Alex Seigel

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Cassill
St. Petersburg campus
alexs210@usf.edu

alex seigel

I am currently looking at the use of environmental DNA in pre- and post-restoration sites (Robinson Preserve and Alligator Creek) to measure the biodiversity of the water system compared to traditional seine netting.

We are also looking to see if any unknown/elusive native (sharks, rays, etc.) or invasive (walking catfish, aquaria species, lionfish, etc.) species have been utilizing these habitats as those need to be factored into measuring the overall success of the restoration itself.

I am hoping to better understand the pros and cons of utilizing eDNA alongside seine nets when measuring biodiversity of tidally influenced water systems.

Austin Smith

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Kramer
Tampa campus
amsmith11@usf.edu

I am a Ph.D. student and research assistant in the Kramer Lab. My research interests include implementing mathematical/statistical techniques to ecological data in order to understand species invasions, niche structure/ habitat suitability, and epidemiological pathways.

My current research involves environmental degradation by invasive waterfowl, Coronavirus transmission network analysis, and creating biologically informative machine learning algorithms.

Maki Tabuchi

Program: Ph.D.
Supervisor: Harwood
Tampa campus
mtabuchi@usf.edu

Daniela Varon Garcia

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Zalamea
Tampa campus
danielavaron@usf.edu

Daniela Varon - M.S. Student

I am a Colombian biologist currently pursuing a master’s degree with Dr. Camilo Zalamea.

My research interests focus on the processes that maintain plant diversity. Specifically, I am fascinated by how microbial interactions with plants can influence forest dynamics in terms of plant function and species distributions. My research involves field and/or greenhouse experiments and molecular ecology, including next-gen sequencing and culturing, to study microbial communities associated with plants.

Shea Volkel

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Kramer
Tampa campus
sheavolkel@usf.edu

shea vokel

I am a PhD student in Dr. Kramer’s lab (joined August 2019). My research focuses on invasive species, species interactions, population dynamics, and spatial ecology in large aquatic systems.

I am currently investigating the spatial and trophic dynamics of invasive lionfish and regal demoiselle in the Gulf of Mexico, along with the ecological interactions among these invasive species and native fishes.

Lauren Walling

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Parkinson/ Richards
Tampa campus
laurenwalling@usf.edu

lauren walling

I am excited to be a Ph.D student, co-advised by both Dr. Richards and Dr. Parkinson. Through my Ph.D research I plan to examine how DNA methylation changes within symbionts of Cnidarians.

I also plan to research how changes to the epigenome of a holobiont is affected by different environmental factors, such as temperature or pH.

Prior to my time here at USF, I received my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana in Molecular and Cellular Biology. I then obtained my master’s degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette where I studied DNA methylation in deep-sea Octocorals.

Jana Wieschollek

Program: Ph. D.
Supervisor: Scott
Tampa campus
jwieschollek@usf.edu

jana w

Hey, I am Jana and I am a graduated student from Germany! I am a PhD student at Dr. Scott’s lab. My earlier research includes work on the biochemistry of army ants and their parasites as an undergraduate student and a Master Thesis focused on mitigation of the Florida Red Tide organism Karenia Brevis via algicidal bacteria.

My PhD project is going to focus on genetically interesting bacteria. These bacteria produce Carboxysome microcompartments, which help the organism with CO2-fixation. Interestingly, the bacteria seem to miss genetic information for important enzymes that are necessary for CO2-fixation. I hope to solve some puzzle pieces in this paradox for a better understanding of those organisms. A better understanding could lead to multiple applications, such as bioengineered CO2 fixation (not part of Scott’s lab research).

Zachary Winstead

Program: M.S.
Supervisor: Doody
St. Petersburg campus
zwinstead@usf.edu

zachary winstead

My name is Zachary Winstead and I am a masters student in the Conservation Biology program. I am currently researching hatching behaviors in lizards.

In the future I look to continue research studying the behavior and ecology of a wide range of different reptiles.