Research
I have loved insects for as long as I can remember, particularly beetles. I did an independent project during my Bachelor's degree at Michigan State University where I catalogued the beetles in the family Ciidae from Museum specimens. I obtained my Masters at Northern Arizona University where I worked on a revision of the darkling beetle genus Hypogena. I have since gone on pursue my other interest in beetle behaviour. I am currently doing my PhD at the University of Otago looking at the mating behaviour of Geodorcus, a genus of threatened stag beetle in New Zealand. I am also the vice-president of the Otago branch of the Entomological Society of New Zealand!
Exaggerated morphology
I have always been in awe of the fact that some animals develop incredibly large secondary sexual traits! There are some fascinating question as to how these traits arise and are maintained in animals. These often show up as horns on animals like deer, ram and you guessed it: Insects! I am currently exploring the role of exaggerated mandible on the males of Geodorcus helmsi in their behaviour and life cycle.
Museum based studies
Coming from a taxonomy based Master's program at Northern Arizona University, I have a deep appreciation for curators and insect collections. So I try to make use of these amazing resources as often as I can. You can get some amazing data from these resources. My current project is working to determine if any species of Geodorcus has alternate male morphs.
Insect Conservation
Insects are arguable some of the most important animals on Earth. But, people often forget about them or don't even consider them to be animals at all. We are currently in the middle of a period of global insect decline. Insects also provide ecosystems with valuable ecosystem services that are difficult or impossible to do without them. Insect conservation needs to considered if we expect life to continue on Earth.
Scanning Electron Microscopy
During my Master's degree, I was lucky enough to be allowed to take a class on Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). By firing a beam of electrons at a heavy metal coated sample, we are able see structures that have been previously too small to see with any degree of clarity. We are also able to ask really interesting questions about the role that these structures play in the life cycle of an insect. I am currently exploring the use of pheromones in Geodorcus helmsi by categorizing the types of hairs present on their legs, antennae and mandibular palps.