Meet the team

Chris Smith

he/him/his

Professor and Department head

I am very much an organismal biologist focused on ants. I have primarily focused my research on caste and division of labor in Pogonomyrmex harvester ants. In addition to my research, I have also taught extensively – including courses ranging from ecology to bioinformatics. When not teaching, my academic life is busy administrating as the department head for the Biology Department at Utah State University. And when not working I am with my family, running, biking, swimming, hiking, snowboarding, skiing, etc., and otherwise enjoying the beautiful outdoors. I have lived on five continents and from coast to coast in the US. 

Anna Telford

She/her/hers

Undergraduate Researcher

I graduated from Ridgeline High School with the Ridgeline Department of Science Award in 2023.  I have continued my studies at USU, majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology with a minor in Chemistry. I plan to pursue a master's program after completing my undergraduate studies.  Outside of school, I both train and teach ballet at Cache Valley Civiv Ballet. Dancing with CVCB since 2014 and being a part of their Company since 2019, I have been able to dance a a variety of soloist roles in their shows.   I have also been able to dance and be a choreographer in CVCB's choreographers' showcase. 

Carson Lyman

he/him/his

Undergraduate Researcher

I am an undergraduate researcher studying Molecular and Cellular Biology. My research interests center on population genetics and evolutionary biology. When not working, I like to spend time reading sci-fi & fantasy, drawing, and exploring the outdoors. 

Ian Brush

he/him/his

Undergraduate Researcher

I studied cybersecurity at Davis Tech before attending Utah State University for Molecular Biology, working towards a career in genetics. I enjoy all types of learning, which is why I enroll in multidisciplinary lab settings, such as the Sustainable Waste-to-Bioproducts Engineering laboratory in which I am also a part. I excel at being moderately knowledgeable in a variety of things, rather than being a specialist or expert in a select few. I am an honors student and also work in the dietary department of the Sunshine Terrace Foundation nursing home. Most of all, I enjoy working with and studying ants both in the wild and in captivity. I aim to explore and refine the methods of rearing ants in laboratory settings, including, but not limited to, Ponerine ant species. 

Kaylee Bond

she/her/hers

Masters student

I got my Bachelor’s degree here at Utah State in Ecology/Evolutionary Biology and I will be starting my Master’s degree in the Fall of 2025. I am interested in genetics and their interaction with the environment, specifically how they influence behavior and social systems in animals. When I am not in the lab I enjoy running, spending time in nature, art, puzzles, and learning something new. 

Srijan Seal

he/him/his

Postdoctoral Researcher

 A master’s dissertation on paper wasps sparked my fascination with evolutionary biology and insects—especially social ones. I completed my PhD at Ashoka University, India focusing on how red flour beetles evolve immune responses when facing multiple bacterial infections. I joined the Smith Lab in January 2025, where I’m investigating the role of Osiris genes in both flour beetles and in harvester ants. My research explores how these genes influence basic physiological functions as well as the organization of social structure. I’m also passionate about teaching and mentoring students. When I’m not in the lab, you can usually find me experimenting in the kitchen or exploring the green spaces around Logan.