Research Interests

Our research focuses on the interplay between ecological and evolutionary processes in wildlife populations impacted by and managed by humans. We use statistical modelling and analysis of long-term datasets, to understand how human-induced changes in the environment and management actions affect phenotypic traits, genetic variance, and demographic trends of wildlife species.

Breeding and reproduction

The timing of breeding and reproduction has important ecological consequences and is critical for the appropriate management of species. We investigate patterns of reproductive timing and their fitness consequences in zoo facilities and in the wild. Current projects include: (1) using infrared thermography to predict breeding events in greater one-horned rhinos and Asian elephants; (2) measuring the seasonality of reproductive hormones and sperm quality in eastern massasauga rattlesnakes and gray ratsnakes; (3) estimating phenological fitness functions for wild and captive eastern loggerhead shrikes and bighorn sheep; and (4) conducting meta-analyses on variation in phenological timing and the selection acting on phenological timing in zoos and conservation breeding programs.

Interplay between wild populations and conservation breeding programs

Conservation breeding programs are used in recovery efforts, but how does conservation breeding affect the animals themselves? We investigate how time spent in zoos influences the traits and genetic makeup of endangered species, and whether these changes may affect their ability to thrive if reintroduced to the wild. Current projects include: (1) a meta-analysis assessing rates of genetic adaptation in zoo populations, (2) applying and determining how to apply fitness surfaces to conservation breeding and reintroduction, (3) examining how the mass of eastern musk and map turtles in conservation breeding program differs from conspecifics in the wild, and (4) understanding individual variation in responses to elephant endotheliotropic herpesviruses in managed populations.

Genetic diversity and gene flow

We use a combination of simulation modeling and empirical research to understand how genetic diversity is maintained and how gene flow influences the fitness and phenotypes of wildlife. Current projects include: (1) using simulations to explore genetic management strategies for group-living species in conservation breeding programs, in collaboration with the Smithsonian and Antwerp Zoo; (2) conducting whole-genome sequencing on the eastern massasauga rattlesnake and the blue-throated macaw to identify runs of homozygosity and inform breeding plans; and (3) investigating how patterns of gene flow shape fitness and phenotypic variation across wild and managed populations.

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