What are you doing in this picture?

The photo was taken from the top of Bellevue Mountain near the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory and looks down the East River Valley (where the lab is located). 

What kind of research do you do?

I do research on streams and the interactions between algae and invertebrates.  Basically, I study slime on rocks and the things that eat it.  I am interested in this interaction because algae, and the invertebrates that eat it, are key for understanding how energy and matter move through stream ecosystems.  Through my research I hope to find how human actions and development affect how streams function.Learn more..

Can you share some memorable experiences you’ve had with students?

It is fun to watch students develop in their years here. They start out a bit rough around the edges, trying to figure out where they want to go.  As they move through college they grow into themselves, learn who they are, what they want to do. 

How are students involved in your research or lab work?

Students are always involved in my research.  If students have an interested in doing research, the research will happen!  Much of the research I do started with some student who had an interesting question or wanted to study something interesting.  My research wouldn't happen without the help and drive from students.

What facilities or equipment do you get to use in your work?

Waders, canoes and nets!

What do you hope your students are getting from your courses?

A sense of what they would like to do and are capable of doing, as well as what they do not like.  Learning what you don’t want or are not good at is an important part of learning.

Do you advise any student organizations, research, field trips etc.?

I am the advisor of the Reef Team, a group of students that care for our two saltwater aquariums in the Biology Department, and Tri Beta the National Biological Honor Society.