Opeyemi is a community ecologist with a broad interest in understanding how drivers of global change shape plant-pollinator interactions. Opeyemi completed his Ph.D. in Entomology at Stellenbosch University, South Africa. During this time, he investigated the differential effects of landscape transformations on plant-pollinator interactions in the Cape Floristic Region Biodiversity Hotspot. He conducted his postdoctoral research on climate induced spatial mismatch in the distribution of pollinators and flowering plants at Cape Peninsula University of Technology South Africa. He later joined the Pollinator Ecology Lab at University of Florida as a postdoc, where he investigated the effect of landscape and local factors on conservation values of pollinator gardens in urban landscape. His current research at University of Central Arkansas investigates functional diversity of interacting plants and pollinators in urban systems, and the role of trait-matching in mediating plant-pollinator interactions. In his free time, Opeyemi enjoys hiking, spending quality time with family and learning about new technology. 

Graduated Florida Gulf Coast University with a Bachelors in Biology B.S. cum laude and plans on pursuing a PhD in entomology with an emphasis on pollinator community dynamics in developed landscape. Mary is currently working on her thesis research as well as becoming a Board-Certified Entomologist Intern with the Entomological Society of America. 

Email: mmcspadden7@cub.uca.edu

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mary-margaret-mcspadden-2941ba281 

Graduated Florida Southern College with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and an English Minor. Mia completed undergraduate research in animal behavior of Owl Monkeys at the Dumond Conservancy for Primates and Tropical Forests and Florida Southern College. Mia is currently pursuing a Masters of Biology with thesis at the University of Central Arkansas. Her thesis focuses on plant-pollinator interactions and network beta diversity across urban gradient in central Arkansas.

Email: malikhan@cub.uca.edu or mia.eve.alikhan@gmail.com

LinkedIn: (3) Mia Alikhan | LinkedIn 

Elaina is a Sophomore at UCA and a technician in our lab. Elaina is majoring in Biology with a minor in Health Promotions. Her interest is in pharmaceutical sales. She travels, stays involved within her sorority and community, and spends time with family and friends during her leisure time