My research focuses on the ways in which flowering plant populations and species respond to their environment and how these responses influence individual plants' reproductive success. I utilize both laboratory and field techniques to document genetic variation among populations and species and to determine the extent to which different agents of evolutionary change impact my study organisms.
Current projects include:
- evaluating the effect of pollinator discrimination among plants producing different floral color morphs in Viola pedata (birdsfoot violet);
- floral fragrance characterization in individual plants of Cypripedium parviflorum var. pubescens (large yellow lady's-slipper orchid) and pollinators' response to different fragrances;
- genetic characterization of and long-term demographic studies of Cypripedium parviflorum var. pubescens, Platanthera ciliaris (orange fringed orchid) and P. blephariglottis (white fringed orchid) populations of various sizes, and
- comparison of genetic diversity in populations of Liatris graminfolia (grass-leaved blazing star) subjected to differential disturbance pressures.
I maintain my interest in floras and vegetation change over time by carrying out plant community studies in regionally accessible wetlands and upland areas. I have enjoyed the collaborative efforts of students in each of these projects and always welcome more.