I am an evolutionary ecologist who studies plant-insect interactions, especially herbivory. Over the past decade, my research program has focused on how herbivores affect plant populations and shape plant traits (ranging from nectar in flowers to chemical defenses). Recently, I’ve expanded this work to compare herbivory in the native and introduced range of a plant, with support from a Fulbright grant to Japan.

I teach a wide range of courses at Pacific University, including ecology, evolution, plant courses, and introductory biology. I love working with students, both in classes and in mentoring them in research, and am proud of their accomplishments at Pacific and beyond (see lab alumni). Some of these accomplishments include completing advanced study in entomology, ecology, and wildlife biology; studying and practicing in the health professions; starting organic farms; and teaching abroad and in the US.

I am active at my institution and in my profession. Most substantially at Pacific, I’ve served as the Biology Department Chair, where I guided a complete curriculum overhaul, our first external review, planning for remodeled facilities, and hiring of 5 new faculty (including 3 successful external start-up grants for these new faculty). In my professional role, I have served as a mentor in a Preparing Future Faculty program, reviewed grant proposals and manuscripts, given invited talks at conferences and universities, and served the community through public talks and other outreach activities.

For more details, see my CV (updated May 2017).