Wildlife Ecology and Conservation department

Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Graduate Students

Student Name: Almassri, Sarah Degree: MS Email: almassris@ufl.edu Advisor: Miller & Mazzotti Research: I am interested in research related to carnivore ecology, human-wildlife conflict, and predator-prey interactions. As an undergrad, I participated in research aimed at understanding carnivore ecology through the use of camera traps. One project investigated how moonlight effects the activity patterns of hyenas in South Africa. Another looked at how reintroduction of carnivores onto a South African game reserve effected the composition of herbivore species. I also worked on a project examining coyotes and their interactions with prey species. Currently, I am a Master’s student conducting occupancy modeling of bobcats in South Florida through camera trap data to determine which environmental factors influence occupancy and how occupancy may change through time. Interests: I live in South Florida but am originally from South Carolina. My appreciation for nature began at a young age. I grew up on a lake and spent my childhood outdoors swimming, boating, fishing, and learning about the local ecology. By high school, it was apparent that biology was my strongest subject and so I decided to pursue a career in wildlife, receiving my Bachelor’s in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology from Clemson University. I’ve worked in a variety of industries as a deckhand, high school teacher, consultant, and hotel clerk before ultimately moving to Florida in 2024 to accept a position as a wildlife biologist. In my free time I enjoy figure skating, freediving, electronic music, gaming, fitness, and hanging out with my two cats.
Student Name: Alvarez, Oniel Degree: MS Email: oniel.alvarez@ufl.edu Advisor: Callaghan Research: Macroecology and conservation of littoral/coastal mollusks in the Americas, with major focus on the insular Caribbean Interests: Bio-data science, hiking, beachcombing, gaming, visual arts
Student Name: Bakley, Tori D Degree: PhD (SNRE) Email: tdbakley@ufl.edu Advisor: Callaghan Research: Tori is interested in applied conservation, particularly where it intersects with habitat management, landscape ecology, and local ecological knowledge. For her PhD, she will be monitoring wading birds on Lake Okeechobee and exploring how biodiversity monitoring methods are utilized to create conservation action. Interests: Tori is a PhD student in the School of Natural Resources and Environment and will be working on a PhD in interdisciplinary ecology. She grew up in Merritt Island, FL, and studied Biology and Anthropology at Florida State University. After graduating with her two Bachelor's degrees, she took seasonal fieldwork positions, which led her all the way to Indonesia and California, but also brought her back to Florida. She has since spent over 5 years as a research assistant monitoring and studying Florida Scrub-Jays. This work has led her to pursue higher education to lead conservation efforts in Florida and beyond. In her spare time, she enjoys crafting, watching wildlife, and spending time with her pets.
Student Name: Bankovich, Brittany Degree: PhD Email: brittanybanko1@ufl.edu Advisor: Johnson Research: Brittany enjoys solving quantitative research problems and specializes in spatial analyses. Her doctoral research is centered around the translocation ecology of gopher tortoises in Florida, and how relocating this species affects their movements, space use, behavior, and health. She is also exploring how the landscape context of recipient sites influences the survival of individuals relocated to those sites, including factors such as land cover, road characteristics, and landscape connectivity. Additionally, her research examines the communities of commensal species associated with gopher tortoises and how translocation may influence their composition and distribution. Interests: Brittany graduated from WEC (Wisely lab) with a Master of Science degree in 2014 where her research centered around the invasion ecology of feral hogs. Since 2015, she has worked as a spatial ecologist with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, collaborating on research projects focused on a wide variety of protected and game species throughout Florida. She began pursuing a PhD in WEC in 2025 focused on translocation ecology. Brittany enjoys experiencing different cultures through travel, climbing tall mountains, and routinely taking up new hobbies with no follow-through. She has lived with her husband and spoiled rotten dog in Gainesville for over a decade and now considers herself an Alachua County Resident (ACR).
Student Name: Barnard, Sarina Degree: MS Email: sarinatweiss@ufl.edu Advisor: Wan Research: Sarina’s research interests include landscape ecology, spatial informatics, population dynamics, geoinformatics, water quality and hydrology, behavioral ecology, biodiversity, and resiliency. Sarina’s personal interests include kayaking, photography, hiking, and bird watching. Interests: Sarina Barnard is an MS graduate research assistant at the University of Florida (UF) in Dr. Ho Yi Wan’s Landscape Ecology, Informatics, and AI (LEIA) lab. As part of the One Health project, her research involves looking at the intersection of ecological resilience, spatial informatics, public health, and AI applications in conservation. She received her bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at UF in 2019. Before coming back to UF for her master’s degree, Sarina worked at the Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership (CHNEP) as the Research & GIS Coordinator. In this role, she led major GIS and spatial analysis initiatives, developed interactive mapping platforms, conducted post-hurricane environmental response assessments, and trained local organizations in the use of advanced environmental datasets. Her work has been presented at regional and national conferences and has contributed directly to the management of critical coastal and estuarine ecosystems. Prior to work at the CHNEP, Sarina conducted behavioral research with Asian elephants at the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, assisted in the development of an AI habitat change detection tool at Defenders of Wildlife, and worked on a camera trap study on snow leopards with the Snow Leopard Trust in Kyrgyzstan.
Student Name: Bassis, Michelle Degree: MS Email: michellebassis@ufl.edu Advisor: Miller & Mazzotti Research: Burmese python ecology in South Florida ecosystems. Interests: Michelle graduated from the University of Maine, Orono in 2017 with a bachelor's degree in Zoology. She has been working in conservation and invasive species management for the past ten years. Current species of interest is the Burmese python in the Florida Everglades.
Student Name: Basta, Jessica Degree: MS Email: jessicabasta79@ufl.edu Advisor: Baker Research: Conservation, herpetology, wildlife health, ecosystem health, and human dimensions. Interests: I enjoy rock climbing, hiking, camping, biking, swimming, naturalizing (esp. birding/herping/botanizing), traveling, reading, watching films, gardening, and baking. I also enjoy creating art and writing (ceramics, prints, zines, poetry) and being active in my community.
Student Name: Birrer, Kimi Degree: PhD Email: birrer.k@ufl.edu Advisor: Lashley Research: My dissertation aims to recognize the role of wild turkeys in seed dispersal, and to understand how predation risk influences plant community outcomes via bird (passerine)-mediated seed dispersal. In my master’s thesis, I studied habitat for the American bumble bee in East Texas. I am widely interested in plant-animal interactions, ornithology, entomology, applied habitat management, conservation, and community outreach. Interests: Much of my childhood I spent in Kentucky riding horses and working on farms, where I noticed differences between bird communities and land-use change. I developed a passion for conservation that has led me to work as a biotech for different U.S. federal agencies. I also fell in love with learning languages and traveling, leading me to study and work in Costa Rica, Brazil, and within different communities in the Southeast. I enjoy diving the Florida springs, learning new plants, and crafting.
Student Name: Blochel, Alexander (Alex) Degree: PhD Email: alexanderblochel@ufl.edu Advisor: White Research: Ecological Forecasting, predicting wading bird communities in the Everglades Interests: Population and community ecology, ecological modelling. I like spending time with my family, gardening, chess, football (soccer), hiking, camping, and exploring nature in general
Student Name: Budziak, Elize Degree: MS (SNRE) Email: ebudziak@ufl.edu Advisor: Robertson Research: My current research interests concern marsh birds and wetland management and conservation. I am researching how marsh bird communities have changed over time in the Everglades in response to hydrologic changes. From there, I am evaluating how marsh birds can be used as indicators of ecosystem-wide changes in response to sea level rise. Results from my research will be used to provide guidance for marsh bird and wetland management in Everglades National Park. I am also looking at how the introduction of the Burmese python has impacted marsh bird population abundance and distribution across southern Florida, primarily in the Everglades. Interests: I am currently a master’s student in the School of Natural Resources and Environment and Wildlife Ecology and Conservation departments. I recently graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a Bachelor of Science in biology and natural resources conservation. I previously worked for the National Park Service and US Fish and Wildlife Service where I worked predominantly with my favorite taxa, birds (including marsh birds, shorebirds, grassland birds, forest birds, nightjars, and more!), as well as with Eastern Box turtles, bats, beavers, and plants. I am now conducting research on marsh birds in Dr. Ellen Robertson’s lab and am excited for my journey at UF!
Student Name: Burton, Kyle J. Degree: PhD Email: k.burton@ufl.edu Advisor: Robertson Research: My research interests are movement ecology, nesting ecology, and understanding how birds of prey respond to environmental changes. I am particularly interested in integrating field-based observations with quantitative and computational approaches to investigate patterns across individuals, populations, and environments. Interests: I have multiple years of field experience researching wildlife of all taxa, but have a special interest in birds of prey. I have a passion for science communication and enjoy sharing my research with other in the hopes of inspiring the next generation of scientists through education. Outside of academia, I am a wildlife photographer who enjoys the outdoors
Student Name: Carter, Cole Degree: MS Email: michaelcarter1@ufl.edu Advisor: Lashley Research: I am interested in looking for a reason that wild turkey populations have been declining nationally. I am also interested in analyzing the impact of habitat management on turkey productivity and recruitment. Interests: I was born and raised in Carrollton, Georgia. I graduated with my degree in Wildlife Science from the University of Georgia in 2026. I enjoying being in God's country, especially hunting and fishing.
Student Name: Chen, Po-An Degree: PhD Email: poanchen@ufl.edu Advisor: Sieving Research: Informationscapes ecology in family Paridae Interests: birding, watching movies, tasting delicious food as well as cooking
Student Name: Dolan, Stacey Degree: PhD (SNRE) Email: sdolan@ufl.edu Advisor: Robertson Research: My research interests center on conservation biology and span animal behavior, community ecology, global change ecology, and evolution. My dissertation research will focus on red-cockaded woodpecker ecology and conservation. Interests: I'm from New England but have lived in Florida for over a decade. I love to travel and spend time outdoors hiking, camping, and birding. My favorite thing to do is take my kid to the beach.
Student Name: Fluck-Essig, Isadora Degree: PhD Email: ifluckessig@ufl.edu Advisor: Baiser Research: Theoretical, methodological, and applied aspects of community ecology; general research interests: ornithology, comparative methods/approaches, ecological and spatial distribution of neotropical taxa, patterns and processes driving species diversity, and environmental diversity gradients Interests: My main personal interests fall into nature research, but I am also interested in arts. In my free time, besides birdwatching, I enjoy reading books about art history, drawing (especially birds) and crafting
Student Name: Franklin, Laura Degree: PhD Email: laurafranklin@ufl.edu Advisor: Lashley Research: The landscape of fear and its effect on movement and survival of white-tailed deer in north Florida, USA. Interests: Laura enjoys reading, solo backpacking trips, biking rail trails, dogs, live music, and living the Subaru life. Her hidden talent is reciting the preamble to the U.S. Constitution by memory, but only the Schoolhouse Rock version.
Student Name: Godínez Gómez, Oscar Degree: PhD (SNRE) Email: oscargodinezgome@ufl.edu Advisor: Fletcher & McCleery Research: Spatial ecology, landscape ecology, mammal ecology and biodiversity conservation Interests: Coding, playing piano and guitar, ceramics, hiking, philosophy and poetry
Student Name: Fischman, Julia Degree: MS Email: juliafischman@ufl.edu Advisor: Wan Research: I have a very strong interest in researching disease ecology, mainly white nose syndrome and chytridiomycosis. I typically lean toward studying herpetology due to my fascination of their anatomy. Ultimately, I am looking to use my research in disease ecology to further a career in veterinary medicine. I would love to run my own wildlife rehab center to help provide people with a sanctuary to bring wildlife to at any time. Overall, I am enthralled studying any species as it relates to disease ecology since, unfortunately, there is such a vast majority of them affected. I cannot wait to continue my journey in the WEC department and contribute to the knowledge of white nose syndrome. Interests: My name is Julia and I am in my first semester of my master’s degree! My project is on the lack of white nose syndrome in Florida bat species. I am ultimately interested in achieving my DVM degree and becoming a wildlife veterinarian. I have always had soft spot for herps, with my favorite animal being an eastern indigo snake! When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my cat named Squid, watching old movies, running, and going to pilates classes. I was born in Atlanta, but grew up close by in Tampa and eventually moved to Gainesville to attend UF for my undergraduate degree in WEC. I’m so excited to dive deeper into my research and continue growing in the WEC department!
Student Name: Ford, Jo Degree: PhD Email: jo.ford@ufl.edu Advisor: McGowan Research: Population/ community ecology, interspecific population dynamics, quantitative ecology, ornithology, population demographic modeling, and conservation in general. Interests: I was raised in the Midwest as an outdoor kid. I have always been fascinated by the wildlife and ecosystems around me which encouraged me later in life to earn my B.S. and M.S. at Iowa State University. I've worked several field technician jobs (all bird-focused) over the years and still find myself curious, in awe of, and surprised by nature. When I'm not doing ecological research, I enjoy birding, crocheting, wood working, hiking, boxing, reading, and cooking.
Student Name: Haro, Daniel Degree: PhD Email: dharo@ufl.edu Advisor: Romagosa Research: My dissertation is focused on developing and applying methods that use data collected through management efforts to understand Burmese python population biology in Southern Florida. More broadly, I’m interested analysis of data that has the potential to impact management and conservation, primarily in the field of herpetology and invasion ecology. Interests: I'm a first generation Mexican-American who grew up admiring lizards in the sunny chaparral hills of Southern California. When not working on my dissertation research I spend my time reading, playing video games, exploring nature, and enjoying local breweries.
Student Name: Juarez-Sanchez, Diego Degree: PhD Email: adjuarez@ufl.edu Advisor: Romagosa Research: The influence of landscape and human activities over the presence of otters in two rivers in northern Guatemala Interests: Carnivores ecology and population dynamics
Student Name: Kammerer, Christian Degree: PhD Email: kammech@ufl.edu Advisor: Ellington Research: I am interested in developing sustainable wildlife management strategies in agroecosystems, with a particular focus on understanding how agricultural practices influence wildlife populations, behavior, and community dynamics. My current research interests center on wildlife space use, movement ecology, and species interactions within working landscapes, especially in sugarcane production systems. Drawing on my background in agronomy, nematology, and wildlife conservation, I am interested in applying ecological principles to balance agricultural productivity with biodiversity conservation. I am particularly fascinated by how animals respond to disturbance and habitat change, and how these responses influence survival and population persistence. Long term, I hope to expand my research into vulture ecology, focusing on reducing human-wildlife conflict, mitigating depredation concerns, and developing science-based conservation strategies for threatened vulture species worldwide. Interests: I am currently a Sugarcane Extension Agent serving Hendry and Glades counties in South Florida, where I work with growers to address agronomic challenges and support sustainable crop production. My background is diverse, beginning in golf course maintenance and expanding into plant health research through a Master of Science in Nematology from the University of Florida, where I studied plant-parasitic nematodes. I have also worked with a variety of wildlife species, including the Florida grasshopper sparrow, white-handed lar gibbon, radiated tortoise, and several small mammal species. I enjoy travel and have lived in Switzerland, Wyoming, and Florida. My long-term goal is to build an international career in wildlife conservation and management, with a particular interest in vulture conservation.
Student Name: Keegan, Coral Degree: PhD (SNRE) Email: coral.keegan@ufl.edu Advisor: McCleery Research: Across much of the globe, large-scale animal movements are restricted by anthropogenic development. Many large herbivores are now predominantly confined to protected areas and can no longer move widely to access the resources they need. In response, protected area managers often provision these resources, but the ecological consequences of these interventions are rarely considered. In savanna ecosystems, water is the most commonly provisioned resource and serves as one of the few tools managers have to control the distribution and impact of large herbivores across these landscapes. Combining remote sensing and experimental field ecology, Coral's research seeks to disentangle the tradeoffs that accompany water provisioning in African savannas. Findings will inform whether and where waterhole establishment and removal can achieve restoration and biodiversity conservation objectives. Interests: Coral holds a Master of Environmental Management from the Yale School of the Environment, where she studied how local ecological knowledge can inform pangolin conservation in Thailand, and a B.S. in Foreign Service from Georgetown University. Her professional experience spans wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism, international development, and visual storytelling, including seven years working for National Geographic. Outside of research, Coral enjoys birdwatching, photography, drawing, and cooking. She also recently launched her small business, The Naturalist Nook, making jewelry from recycled natural history guidebooks. Around Gainesville, you’re most likely to find her exhibiting at one of the local art fairs or searching for armadillos at Sweetwater Wetlands Preserve!
Student Name: Kyasiimire, Beatrice Degree: PhD Email: be.kyasiimire@ufl.edu Advisor: Hostetler Research: Ecological and Social costs of linear infrastructure development in Protected areas, Uganda. Interests: Reading, listening to Music, Cooking, Wildlife watching, Nature walks, Watching games (football) and Family time.
Student Name: Lahiri, Annesha Degree: PhD Email: a.lahiri@ufl.edu Advisor: Lashley & Baruzzi Research: My Ph.D. research evaluates science communication strategies for wildlife conservation. I am interested in looking at what drives engagement with conservation on digital media and whether extension course can change participants' knowledge and behavior. Interests: I am a Ph.D. candidate at WEC. My research sits at the intersection of conservation science and human dimensions, focusing on how digital communication strategies can enhance public understanding and engagement in wildlife conservation. Before my Ph.D., I worked with World Wide Fund for Nature-India (WWF-India) for more than four years as an environmental education officer. I am passionate about making science accessible and communicating research in clear, everyday language.
Student Name: Lamb, Sam Degree: PhD Email: s.lamb@ufl.edu Advisor: Ernest Research: Community ecology of small mammals and plants, including responses to changing climate and biotic conditions; temporal dynamics in arid systems Interests: Lover of reading, wildlife photography, anything outdoorsy, volleyball, painting, and cats!
Student Name: Lamichhane, Saneer Degree: PhD Email: slamichhane@ufl.edu Advisor: Oli Research: Tiger occupancy inside and outside of protected areas, the spatiotemporal pattern of interactions between tigers, human, prey, and sympatric carnivores, and whether human disturbance effects tiger and prey population dynamics. Interests: Playing guitar
Student Name: Lasky, Monica Degree: PhD Email: lasky.monica@ufl.edu Advisor: McCleery Research: Behavioral ecology of African wildlife Interests: Horseback riding, hiking, and traveling
Student Name: Lilkendey, Thomas Degree: PhD Email: thomaslilkendey@ufl.edu Advisor: Robertson Research: My research focuses on wetland birds, using macroecological and passive acoustic monitoring techniques. On a broad scale, I use the USGS North American Breeding Bird Survey dataset to investigate how indicator species and avian assemblages can track changes in wetland habitats. On a finer scale, I study the phenology and habitat use of Soras, King Rails, and Virginia Rails at Sweetwater Wetlands Park. To do this, I compare Autonomous Recording Unit (ARU) data with eBird citizen science data and hydrological measurements. Ultimately, my work aims to advance the monitoring and conservation of wetland bird populations. Interests: I grew up in Gainesville and can credit the Florida Museum of Natural History and our public parks and preserves for inspiring me to join WEC at UF for my undergrad. During that time I volunteered and interned at a variety of places including the Alachua Conservation Trust and the Florida Museum. During undergrad, I worked with Dr. Callaghan and published a paper using citizen science to study plant-pollinator interactions in urban greenspaces. Since I graduated in 2025, I have worked at the UF Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants as a Research Assistant, and at FWC assisting on a study applying drones to waterfowl population surveys. My main interest is avian ecology and I volunteer at the local bird banding station on the weekends.
Student Name: Manning, Morgan Degree: PhD Email: morgan.manning@ufl.edu Advisor: Acevedo Research: Modeling mammal responses to disturbance and potential for sustainable harvest in Amazonian indigenous territories Interests: Quantitative ecology, computer programming, SCUBA diving, cooking, and going on walks with my Great Dane, June
Student Name: Meyer, Rob Degree: PhD Email: rt.meyer@ufl.edu Advisor: Baiser Research: I'm interested in biodiversity and community ecology and their intersection with fire on the landscape. Interests: Originally from Buffalo, NY, I have spent the last 12 years in the southeast working on cotton rats, bobwhite quail and flying squirrels (my masters work at Mississippi State). I've been an Red-cockaded Woodpecker Biologist for the last 8 years with Tall Timbers in Tallahassee before coming to UF.
Student Name: Miguelena, Fernando Degree: PhD Email: fmiguelena@ufl.edu Advisor: Baiser Research: Community ecology, fire ecology, disturbance, meta-analyses, salamander conservation Interests: Reading, hiking, herping, language learning, playing video games
Student Name: Minami, William Degree: MS Email: minami.w@ufl.edu Advisor: Morales Research: I am interested in data science and human-wildlife conflicts. I thoroughly enjoyed my undergraduate research in ornithology as well. For my graduate program, I am looking at the efficacy of the NextGen/COMPASS grant, which provides funding for various STEM-based research. Interests: I am a graduate student from Guam studying human dimensions in Micronesia. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, hiking, cooking and baking, discovering new songs, and just connecting with nature.
Student Name: Mora-Cabello, Mónica Degree: PhD (SNRE) Email: mora.monica@ufl.edu Advisor: Morales Research: Mónica's research interests are situated in Chilean Patagonia and center on the governance of protected areas. She draws on theoretical frameworks such as political ecology, environmental governance, and socio-ecological systems. Through these lenses, she examines the power dynamics behind conservation decisions, the narratives coming from local communities, and the ways these decisions reconfigure how people inhabit their territories. She is interested in Latin American critical theories that question conservation models exported to the Global South, as well as the multiple possible alternatives that emerge and resist from these latitudes. Interests: Mónica is a Chilean PhD student in Interdisciplinary Ecology at the University of Florida, funded by a Fulbright-ANID scholarship. She holds a degree in Veterinary Medicine from Universidad de Chile and a Master's in Natural Resources from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, with early career experience in mammal conservation and management, molecular ecology, environmental education, and science communication. Nearly ten years of teaching, research, and community engagement at Universidad Austral de Chile's Campus Patagonia turned her academic interests toward the human dimensions of conservation, particularly its social and political dimensions, which led her doctoral studies toward the governance of protected areas in Chilean Patagonia. She is currently part of the Human Dimensions Lab in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation.
Student Name: Olejniczak, Kevin Degree: MS Email: kevin0211@ufl.edu Advisor: Balaguera-Reina Research: Conservation is the goal of my research, I am interested in studying how ecological processes affect indicator species in order to understand the best methods for population conservation and habitat protection. I am specifically interested in reptiles, movement patterns and effects of abiological factors on individuals. Interests: I am a born and raised Floridian that loves the outdoors. I like to fish, watch football and enjoy the beach. American Alligators and Crocodiles are two of my favorite species and I am so lucky I get to work with them in the field.
Student Name: Pietras, Adele Degree: PhD Email: apietras19@ufl.edu Advisor: Wisely Research: My research interest is centered around population genomic health in the endangered Black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes). Through bioinformatics I analyze demographic trends and management strategy impacts on key population genomic factors (i.e. genetic drift/ genetic erosion and admixture). Another main focus in my research is the feasibility and utility of biobanking to provide long term resources for advance reproductive techniques in genetically depauperate endangered species like the Black-footed ferret. Interests: I am PhD at the University of Florida (UF) who previously studied at UF to receive a bachelors in microbiology and cell science and further went on to receive my DVM from Cornell University. My life long love for animals and the natural world drive my passion to conduct applied research to save the biodiversity we have remaining. Other than my research I also take an active part in the community by working at a local vet clinic and serving on the board for the Wildlife graduate student association. In my remaining spare time I do Crossfit, salsa dancing, volleyball, and trivia.
Student Name: Poplin, Brooke Degree: PhD Email: brookepoplin@ufl.edu Advisor: Acevedo Research: My current research at WEC focuses on the past, present, and future landscape distribution of the Florida Snail Kite. I am currently using dynamic occupancy modeling to understand the redistribution of kites over the past three decades and the population's response to an invasive species gradient. I am working with the Everglades Foundation to construct agent-based individual models which will predict future redistribution in response to management scenarios in order to simulate response before on-the ground work is completed. Finally, I will be using brownian bridge movement models to understand how movement in foraging patches can allow us to extrapolate resource quantity and nesting-habitat quality. Interests: My journey that has led me here to WEC started with a bird. Coming from a small town in Texas with a strong background in 4A, FFA, and barrel racing, my love for animals did not necessarily include wildlife until I was bitten by an American Kestrel during my first day of undergraduate research. Since then, my research interests have evolved to understanding the behavior and spatial ecology of birds of prey. I completed my master's research at the University of North Texas studying the social behavior of polyandrous hawks. In 2025, I began my PhD at the University of Florida with research focusing on the range dynamics of the Florida Snail Kite - an endangered specialist bird of prey.
Student Name: Renfro, Riley Degree: MS (SNRE) Email: riley.renfro@ufl.edu Advisor: Baker Research: My thesis is on yellow perch movement and home range in the Great Lakes and presence/distribution of microplastics in yellow perch muscle tissue. Outside my thesis I have research interests in wildlife forensics, wildlife rehabilitation, and One Health. Interests: In my free time I like to cook, teach others how to cook, craft, and spend time at NATL (Natural Areas Teaching Laboratory)!
Student Name: Restrepo-Cardona, Juan Degree: PhD Email: juan.restrepo@ufl.edu Advisor: Hull Research: As a conservation biologist, my professional goal is to contribute to evidence-based solutions to global conservation challenges, including perceived and actual human-wildlife conflicts. Human-wildlife interactions are diverse, and the magnitude of human impacts is severe. Combined social and ecological system approaches are key to the efficient management of human conflicts over wildlife, to the conservation of globally threatened species, and to turn human-wildlife conflicts into large scale coexistence. My research and conservation work will be applied across public and private agencies, civil society, local farmers, NGOs, and academia. Interests: I received a BS in Biology from the Universidad de Caldas (2008-2013) and an MS in Conservation and Use of Biodiversity from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana (2015-2018) in Colombia. I am a PhD candidate in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation (as of 2022) at the University of Florida in the USA. For my PhD project, I am analyzing human-raptor conflict and coexistence in the northern Andes (Ecuador and Colombia). I am the Conservation Science Coordinator at Fundación Condor Andino, and member of the IUCN Vulture Specialist Group.
Student Name: Rojas-Canizales, Daniela Degree: PhD (SNRE) Email: rojascanizalesd@ufl.edu Advisor: Hull Research: My research focuses on sea turtle conservation, particularly the legal and illegal take of sea turtles and the factors that influence these practices. I am interested in understanding how people interact with wildlife and how social, cultural, economic, and governance factors shape these interactions. My work combines ecological and social science approaches to explore why sea turtles are used and how conservation efforts can better support both wildlife and local communities. So far, my research has focused on the Caribbean region, where I study patterns of sea turtle take and the motivations and perceptions of the people involved. Interests: I am originally from Venezuela, where I was born, raised, and earned my undergraduate degree in Biology. That is also where I first started working with sea turtles and collaborating with Indigenous communities. In 2015, I moved to Costa Rica, where I spent eight years working on sea turtle nesting beaches. During that time, I also had the opportunity to work in Panama, where my interest in social science grew through working with other indigenous communities. I later moved to the United States to pursue a Master of Science at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. I am currently a second-year PhD student in Interdisciplinary Ecology in SNRE.
Student Name: Romero-Olvera, Miguel Degree: MS Email: m.romeroolvera@UFL.EDU Advisor: Romagosa Research: Raptor conservation. I am especially interested in questions such as: What are the best habitats for Southeastern American Kestrels? Where should we place the nest boxes to help increase their nesting success? Additionally, I want to explore potential links between the Southeastern American Kestrel’s decline and pesticides, which may be reducing the falcon’s prey and survival due to the toxic effects of these compounds Interests: Birding, nature, birds of prey, soccer, hiking, biking, and spending time with family.
Student Name: Sawant, Suyash Degree: PhD (SNRE) Email: s.sawant@ufl.edu Advisor: Sieving Research: My research interests include animal behavior, community ecology, bioacoustics, and quantitative ecology. I am particularly interested in how animals communicate and exchange information within complex ecological communities, and how these processes change across environments. My current research focuses on avian mixed-species flocks in the Southeastern US as social information networks. I am exploring how species interactions, vocal communication, habitat structure, and urbanization shape information flow within these communities. My work spans understanding how and why individual acoustic signals are generated, how they travel through the environment, and how social networks and large-scale geographic patterns in flocking behavior shape the information landscapes. I am especially interested in developing and applying quantitative tools to understand animal communication, social behavior, and species interactions in changing landscapes. Interests: I am a 4th-year PhD candidate in WEC and SNRE at the University of Florida. I grew up in India and have an interdisciplinary background in biology and physics, which has shaped my current research in ecology. Before joining UF, I completed my undergraduate and master’s degrees at IISER Tirupati in India, where I began studying bird behavior and acoustic communication. My work now combines field ecology, bioacoustics, quantitative modeling, and animal behavior to understand avian communities across natural and human-modified landscapes. Outside of research, I enjoy birding, hiking, playing soccer, cooking, keeping aquariums, and growing plants.
Student Name: Serano, Jaren Degree: MS Email: jclaude.serano@ufl.edu Advisor: Carthy Research: This study will be examining how human interventions such as beach renourishment affects natural coastal processes and resilience. Primarily, examining how gas exchange relates to sea turtle nesting, dune building and carbon sequestration Interests: Wildlife Enthusiast, Conservation Biology, Ornithology, Natural Science. Appreciates long hikes
Student Name: Shiver, Shelby Degree: MS Email: sshiver@ufl.edu Advisor: Hull Research: My research interests broadly include spatial and behavioral ecology of mammals. I’m particularly interested in large carnivores, and my study species is the Florida Black Bear. My thesis is focused on black bear habitat selection and movement in the unique environment of Southwest Florida. I’m investigating how seasonal inundation, drought, and fire influence female bears space use and movement patterns. My research aims to provide insight into how bears interact with their environment in response to stochastic events. Interests: I’m originally from Crawfordville, Florida and earned my B.S. in Biology from the University of Florida in 2017. While an undergraduate at UF, I worked for the FWC Bear Research Program. After graduating, I worked around the U.S. researching bears, otters, bobcats, coyotes, and fox squirrels. After serving as the lead technician for a bear project in Asheville, North Carolina for 1.5 years, I traded mountains for swamps to rejoin the FWC as a research associate for the Bear Research Program in Naples, Florida. Most recently, I led a bear capture project in South Florida. I am earning my MSc while working full-time for the FWC. In my free time, I love hiking, camping, biking, birding, and adventuring with my dogs.
Student Name: Soifer, Lydia Degree: PhD (SNRE) Email: lydia.soifer@ufl.edu Advisor: Scheffers Research: My research broadly examines how microclimate variability influences biodiversity patterns from local to global scales, with a particular focus on the influence of 3D climate variation across landscapes and from ground to canopy. Interests: I am a 5th year PhD candidate in the Scheffers lab. Prior to coming to UF, I completed my undergraduate degree at Davidson College in North Carolina and my masters at the University of Cambridge in the UK.
Student Name: Stanley, Rick Degree: PhD (SNRE) Email: rstanley@ufl.edu Advisor: Loiselle Research: Bird conservation, spatial ecology, habitat use in human-modified landscapes, avian behavioral ecology, sociality, and sexual selection
Student Name: Stone, Shea Degree: MS (SNRE) Email: sheastone@ufl.edu Advisor: Acevedo Research: Shea’s graduate research focuses on developing quantitative models to better understand disease outcomes in the lizard-malaria system in Puerto Rico. She is specifically exploring how heterogeneity in individual risk, space, and movement can affect malaria transmission in anoles. Interests: Shea is originally from Miami, Florida and is proud to be a double gator! As an undergraduate student, she worked at the Florida Museum of Natural History’s Butterfly Rainforest and volunteered for several UF research projects, including analyzing camera trap data for Snail Kite nesting behavior and foraging behavior of small mammals and birds in South Africa, as well as deploying GPS collars to collect coyote movement data. After graduating, she spent time in Colorado working as a Naturalist before returning to UF. Outside of academia, she participated in countless productions with Florida Players as an actor, singer, director, and executive board member.
Student Name: Stratton, Logan Degree: MS Email: lstratton@ufl.edu Advisor: Romagosa Research: Invasion ecology, biosecurity, early detection rapid response (EDRR), biodiversity, landscape ecology Interests: Hiking, kayaking, gardening, reading, metal music
Student Name: Summo Elias, Sebastian Degree: PhD Email: sebastiansummo@ufl.edu Advisor: Romagosa Research: I am broadly interested in herpetological conservation and invasion ecology. I will be conducting research on the reproductive ecology of female Burmese Pythons in South Florida. This work aims to better understand the hormonal cycles of females, in the hopes that it can be applied to the management of the species. I have experience working with snakes, having studied the habitat use and conservation ecology of Western Ribbonsnakes in New Mexico for my M.S. degree. Other research interests of mine include disease ecology and reproductive ecology. Interests: I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Florida, before obtaining my M.S. degree in biology at Eastern New Mexico University. I was born in the Dominican Republic and moved to South Florida at a young age. Growing up in Miami, I have always had an affinity for reptiles and amphibians, and as a result, herps dominate most of my interests. The Everglades is a very important ecosystem to me, and I hope to be able to contribute to its conservation. Some of my hobbies include hiking, basketball, chess, watching soccer, and herping, and I am currently trying to add fishing to the list.
Student Name: Ubeda, Armando Degree: PhD Email: aubeda@ufl.edu Advisor: Main Research: The movement of elasmobranchs, specifically spatial segregation patterns of sharks and rays by size and sex Interests: Hiking, camping, foraging mushrooms, surfing, scuba diving, fishing, traveling, reading, writing, music, grilling, traditional karate, and soccer.
Student Name: Zuluaga Egas, Marlyn Degree: PhD Email: mzuluagaegas@ufl.edu Advisor: Loiselle Research: The effects of fire disturbance regime and white-tailed deer populations on longleaf pine ecosystems Interests: Hiking, camping, really anything outdoors, wildlife rehabilitation, (watching) hockey, cooking, learning new things