Our primary research interests involve understanding how spatial and temporal variability influences ecological processes in both natural and human-influenced landscapes. We seek to conduct research that helps build upon ecological theories, while also providing science-based applications that influence management decisions at both local, regional, and global scales.
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Below are some broad categories of research focuses in our team. More specific details can be found on the People tab.
UNDERSTANDING ECOLOGICAL PINCH POINTS
Broadly defined, an ecological pinch point is the discrete time or event where conditions or resources experienced by an organism deviate to extreme values relative to average conditions to limit vital rates and or/space use of that organism. We seek to understand when, where, and at what scale these pinch points occur within varying ecological systems.
DISTRIBUTED TEMPERATURE SENSING IN ECOLOGICAL STUDIES
Thermal conditions are dynamic in both space and time. We seek to utilize distributed temperature sensing (DTS) systems in both terrestrial and aquatic ecological studies to understand how these dynamics influences ecological processes.
ECOLOGICAL NICHE MODELING
We apply ecological niche modeling theory and tools to understand how issues like climate change and human-induced rapid environmental change influence species' distributions and habitat use.
NOVEL BIOTIC INTERACTIONS ON THERMAL SELECTION
In collaboration with Dr. Shannon Brewer and Skylar Wolf, we are investigating the influence of biotic interactions of native and non-native stream fishes on thermal space use through distributed temperature sensing. Video credit: Skylar Wolf.
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Rangeland Restoration
We work with private landowners and other range specialists to develop novel techniques for managing invasive species of plants and restoring native grasslands in the southern Great Plains.