May 2025-Present

Deciphering The Cuticular Hydrocarbon Profiles of Parasitic Aphaenogaster Ants (June 2025-September 2025)

She is studying the social parasite Aphaenogaster tennesseensis. She sampled colonies to test their cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles (also known as scent) in order to determine how the social parasite invaded the host colony.  The data showed that A. tennesseensis has a significantly different CHC profile to the host, suggesting that the host has an entry method that doesn't rely entirely on mimicking the host's profile. 

Publication: Kelleher et al. In Review Jorunal of Chemical Ecology

Do Bacterial Communities Differ Among Species The Leaf-Cutter Ant Community? (August 2023-June 2025)

She is studying the differences in the bacterial communities of leaf-cutter ants (Atta spp.) and their endosymbiont fungi. Atta are a known pest species across Brazil and understanding their bacterial communities could reveal insights into methods of pest control via targeted pesticides.