Clara A. Woodie

Ph.D. Candidate | Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology | University of California, Riverside

About Me

As a Ph.D. candidate in Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology at University of California, Riverside in Dr. Kurt Anderson's lab, I specialize in population dynamics, using both theory and empiricism to uncover mechanisms of food web dynamics. I am passionate about bridging the gap between theory and the natural world by developing and testing ecological theory!

I grew up in Los Angeles and received my BS in Biology from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2016. I’ve loved being in nature since my first backpacking trip at 2 years old, but I fell in love with the field of ecology when I learned how math and ecology are intricately entwined. I am fascinated by the fact that simple mathematical equations can describe complex natural processes. On a typical day you can find me identifying local wildlife with iNaturalist, in the lab reveling in the beauty of the microscopic world, or on the computer exploring the art form that is population dynamics!

Outside of work, I love hiking, gardening, nature photography, and spending time with my loved ones including my 3 cats. I am also a foster with Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center, where I foster sick and underage kittens and pregnant mom cats. I am passionate about advocating for adoption and animal rights.