The lab is powered by an enthusiastic group of undergraduates who love reptiles and amphibians, fossils, and dead things. We focus on morphology, primarily of bones, but collaborate with colleagues focused on ecology and molecular biology. Students in the lab contribute to many ongoing projects but also have the freedom to pursue their own questions, if we have the resources or can join forces with others who do!

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Are you interested in getting involved in research? Here is some additional information about the lab, and expectations for research students:

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• Anyone is welcome, with any level of experience. Our group does not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or disrespectful behavior. We strongly support increasing diversity of all kinds in STEM.

• My long-term goal is to foster independence in my research students. I will work with you to outline a project or learn a skill that is feasible in one or more semesters, depending on your interest and time. During our time together (and beyond), I expect that you will act with integrity regarding data collection and analysis, and avoid plagiarism. If you get stuck, talk to me.

• Our lab likes to work together! I am a person, just like you, and may not have the answer to all questions (whoa!). Students often learn valuable skills from each other. I meet with students individually, but we also hold group lab meetings and sometimes network with students and faculty from other labs and institutions. 

• In addition to learning the research process (design, all the way to presenting and writing), a big part of our group training is focused on professional development, including networking, how to find and apply to grants, construct a cv/resume, etc.

• We promote work-life balance. Again, I am also a person with time constraints and outside obligations. I will work very hard to respect your time, and I expect that you will do the same towards me and your colleagues. We all work best when we are healthy, rested and supported. Honest communication is key.

• Research ebbs and flows -- because of the nature of different types of projects, grant and conference deadlines, and other research activities, there are times when you will need to work very hard, and potentially at odd hours. A lot of reading and writing is required (A LOT). I will do my best to help you develop strong time-management skills, but I also expect that you are here to learn, and are enthusiastic about doing the work (yes, even the reading, and tedious parts).