Researchers
Lead Researchers
Reptile and amphibian physiology, ecology, and natural history (emphasis on northeastern and southwestern U.S. fauna), with emphasis on conservation-related research
My research focuses on the physiological ecology of reptiles and amphibians, integrating lab and field studies, often with a conservation-oriented approach. Current major areas of study include the impact of anthropogenic changes to environmental salinity on temperate zone amphibian species, distribution and impact of amphibian diseases in New Jersey, and the evolutionary and ecological patterns underlying osmoregulatory strategies used by reptiles with high-salt diets. In my research, I have found fascinating variation among species in how they cope physiologically and behaviorally with environmental or dietary salts, with profound implications for the evolution of physiological traits and for the conservation of imperiled species. Students participate in all aspects of my research, and several have been co-authors on conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
Molecular ecology of amphibians, reptiles, and other groups.
Research interests: morphology, ecology, and systematics of anuran larvae employing morphometric techniques and statistical data analyses. Published studies in Copeia, Herpetologica, Journal of Herpetology, Bulletins of the Irish Biogeographical Society, Catalogue of American Amphibians and Reptiles, and others. Populations studied include North America, Central America, and Europe.
Current research focus: the endangered natterjack toad Epidalea calamita in Ireland. Collaborations with Dr. Kirsten Monsen-Collar using nuclear DNA microsatellite analysis to determine genetic diversity/ allelic richness; with Dr. Jack Gaynor to sequence mtDNA.
Education: BS Wagner College; MS University of Texas at El Paso, advisor Dr. Robert G. Webb; PhD University of Nebraska, advisor Dr. John D. Lynch.
Doctoral Student
Paola Dolcemascolo
Master’s Students
Tara Snyder
Stephanie Zilinskis
Linda Araya
Kara Lindstrom
Former Graduate Students
Scott Buchanan, M.S. 2012
Kristen Kwasek, M.S. 2011
Erika Koelmel, M.S. 2011
Madelyn Gonzalez-Abreu, M.S. 2011
Collaborations
Russell Burke, Hofstra University
NJ DEP Endangered and Non-Game Species Program
Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey