Examining connectivity in marine systems requires a historical perspective, and genetic data is just one of the tools we implement to study relationships within a species or group of taxa. The cold temperate and polar oceans are particularly fascinating to me, so my work focuses on the genus Metridium, the plumose (or fluffy) sea anemones as a way to study these connections in detail. My main research goals address:
- Species delimitations and systematics within Metridium
- How historical gene flow has impacted and built the current assemblages both the Atlantic and Pacific, particularly in light of glaciations.
- How southern populations are connected to the northern hemisphere populations.
- How invasions by sea anemones occur and are facilitated.
- Salinity and temperature limits of Metridium senile
Future Directions
Currently, I am expanding my skill set fitted with molecular methods that can be applied to marine systems for addressing questions in population genetics, biogeography, and applied conservation issues from a genomic perspective. My goal is to apply my systems thinking in research and skills in project management to a team setting where we tackle applied questions in marine communities. I also have a strong interest in how to successfully communicate what we know about biodiversity with policymakers and the general public, as this communication is in constant need of improvement. Citizen science initiatives, such as iNaturalist, are one of my favorite tools to involve the public in learning about biodiversity.
Currently, I am expanding my skill set fitted with molecular methods that can be applied to marine systems for addressing questions in population genetics, biogeography, and applied conservation issues from a genomic perspective. My goal is to apply my systems thinking in research and skills in project management to a team setting where we tackle applied questions in marine communities. I also have a strong interest in how to successfully communicate what we know about biodiversity with policymakers and the general public, as this communication is in constant need of improvement. Citizen science initiatives, such as iNaturalist, are one of my favorite tools to involve the public in learning about biodiversity.
Please contact me if you are interested in collaborating or just to get in touch :) I would love to hear about any sightings of Metridium as well! Have any sea anemone sightings throughout the world? Upload them to our iNaturalist project:
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