Research

Cities have emerged rapidly in Earth’s history, transforming the environment and creating novel ecosystems that impact wildlife in unique ways. My research investigates how urban environments influence gene flow, genetic drift, natural selection, and physiological and genetic adaptations in wildlife. Urban ecosystems are shaped not only by human infrastructure but also by political and social prejudices, which create uneven environmental conditions. In the United States, historical practices like Redlining and Jim Crow laws have left lasting scars, resulting in hotter, more polluted, and less green neighborhoods in marginalized communities compared to their privileged counterparts.

To explore these dynamics, I study the Odorous House Ant (Tapinoma sessile), a widespread native species found across urban and rural gradients. Urban populations of this ant have evolved from nearby rural populations, making it an excellent model for understanding the effects of urbanization. My research focuses on how racial segregation has influenced physiological and genetic adaptations, comparing ant colonies from historically segregated neighborhoods across multiple cities. By combining insights into evolutionary biology with socio-political factors, my work highlights the intersection of environmental justice and urban biodiversity.

This research contributes to our understanding of how human-altered landscapes shape wildlife and aims to inform equitable strategies for conserving biodiversity while addressing the environmental challenges faced by marginalized communities.