Research opportunities
I have broad interests in ecology and conservation. Most of my projects involve working in the field and the lab. Although my students often work with amphibians, I am very willing to expand my research horizons to start a project that interests you.
All students in the Biology program at YCP have the wonderful opportunity to participate in a guided research series. We also offer the opportunity for any student to complete independent research for up to 4 semesters of credit! Please contact me if you are interested in independent research!
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Prior to doing a research project you must consider the logistics needed to be successful. Additional considerations are necessary when you plan to work with live animals (in the lab or field).
Please plan ahead and contact me early to get started!
A word about permits
Field research on natural populations of vertebrates requires permits. Most of my work involves amphibians so a permit is needed from the PA Fish and Boat Commission. That permit application (and a list of students who will work under the permit) is needed by the end of January. If you would like to do this type of work, you must talk to me before the end of the fall semester (even for a summer project).
Prior to getting started
Before we get started, we prepare for your project together after you have signed up for the Biology Research class.
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Preparation includes you writing a proposal that includes background, hypotheses to be tested, explanation of why the research is important (significance), experimental design, and a list of references. Your experimental design should include sample size, and a detailed protocol for collecting, handling, and housing individuals (if required).
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Paperwork for appropriate lab access
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Lab safety protocols
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Animal care and use committee (IACUC) approval
Animal Care and Use
We must take into account the welfare of the animals that we study. All procedures must be reviewed by the YCP IACUC. I will help guide you to get approval from this committee. Please review the guidelines for working with live amphibians and reptiles. We will adhere to these guidelines.
Follow through
Completing data collection is only the beginning! I’ll expect you to be in close contact during data analysis.
As your mentor I expect you to send me drafts of your written proposals, presentations, poster, and final manuscript!
 Collecting amphibian larvae to test for ranavirus |  Spotted salamander juveniles ready to disperse |
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 Measuring Plethodonid salamanders before tracking them with fluorescent powder |  Checking coverboards to monitor the amphibian community |
 Tracking toadlet movement at a local park |  Presenting research project at Biology Research Symposium |
 Sampling a vernal pool to monitor ranavirus prevalence |
To be successful in completing your Research Project ...
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start early!
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plan your project carefully
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develop a good relationship with your mentor (visit me and talk to me - OFTEN!)
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immerse yourself in the published literature
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ask questions