2025-26 Global Change Research Fellow

PhD Student, Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology
Advisor: Dr. Jeff Doser 

About You

What do you study?
I study the intersections among federal policy, forest management, and understudied wildlife. My research investigates the use of quantitative tools to allocate funds under the Endangered Species Act and applies statistical models to quantify relationships between forest management and populations of amphibians, reptiles, and insect pollinators. Broadly, I’m interested in using quantitative tools to conduct research that directly informs wildlife policy and management actions (aka policy-relevant conservation science). 

Who influenced you to go into this field of study?
Like many people in the conservation field, I’ve known I wanted to study and help protect nature since I was a kid! As an undergraduate, I worked or volunteered in a variety of environmental research labs to help narrow my research interests. Ultimately, I found a passion for studying wildlife through my research in William & Mary’s Applied Ecological Research (ACER) lab on the population dynamics of stream-breeding salamanders. When I was younger, I had dreams of working with large mammals like elephants or sea turtles, but quickly fell in love with salamanders through my field work, and have wanted to focus on studying “uncharismatic” species ever since. My undergraduate research on wildlife crossing implementation with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources helped me discover I am most fulfilled when my work directly contributes to policy and management. 

What do you think is the most pressing issue related to global change?
I think the most pressing issue related to global change is financial resource availability. Many people have recognized the importance of preventing, mitigating, and adapting to global change; however, actions to solve global change issues still lack sufficient funding. 

About Your Research

What results are you finding?
I’m a first-year doctoral student, so I don’t have many results yet! To prepare for my research, I’ve learned a lot about the Endangered Species Act and methods for making decisions about complex resource management problems.

Who will benefit from your research?
The results of my research can aid both government agencies and private landowners trying to manage for amphibians, reptiles, and insect pollinators in forests of the Southeast U.S. My Endangered Species Act research could help inform improvements to the funding allocation process for listed species recovery. 

How would you describe your research to a 3rd grader?
I use math and computers to estimate where wildlife are and how many there are. This helps people in charge of forests plan so they can protect wildlife. 

About Your Global Change Research Fellow Experience

How do you expect the SE CASC Global Change Research Fellows Program to impact you and your work?
The SE CASC Global Change Research Fellows Program has introduced me to so many helpful resources that will improve my research. We’ve learned about conducting literature reviews, creating figures and graphics, using climate data, and so much more. The program has also taught me about the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives and expertise into research. The program has definitely inspired me to be more open-minded and collaborative in my work. 

What advice would you give to a student that is interested in getting involved in your field?
Don’t be afraid to reach out to people! If I ever had questions about research or careers, I always asked those with experience in the field – even if I was intimidated by them or had never talked with them before. In my experience, they will always be welcoming and excited to provide their perspective. These connections can also help you when applying to graduate school or internships/careers in the future. Get involved! The environmental field is broad, so any experience can help you explore your options and narrow down your interests.

What has been the most rewarding part or your favorite part of being a SE CASC Global Change Research Fellow?

The most rewarding part of being a SECASC Global Change Research Fellow is getting to be a part of the SECASC community. Everyone is so kind, supportive, and passionate about their work. 

Is there anything else you want to share?

Try to make time to connect with nature when you can! We are fortunate to witness the gifts the Earth provides. “Paying attention is a form of reciprocity with the living world, receiving the gifts with open eyes and open heart.” – Robin Wall Kimmerer

Learn more about the Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center’s Global Change Research Fellows program.

This post was originally published in SE CASC.