I am a PhD Candidate in the Biological Anthropology program at the University of Minnesota. My research involves using agent-based models combined with field research to test a broad range of hypotheses in biology. Agent-based models can simulate behavior coded at the individual “agent” level and are increasingly important tools in biological fields. I have created a model, B3GET, which simulates the evolution of virtual organisms to better understand the relationships between growth and development, life history and reproductive strategies, mating strategies, foraging strategies, and how ecological factors drive these relationships. I also conduct field research to better model the behavior of these virtual organisms. Here I am pictured processing baboon fecal material in Awash National Park, Ethiopia. Additionally, I create multimedia teaching tools for courses here at Minnesota, including agent-based models to illustrate concepts in biology and videos of the Minnesota Zoo macaques to demonstrate field methods on animal behavior.
Educational Background
- B.A.: Anthropology, University of Minnesota, 2012 -
- B.S.: Astronomy/Astrophysics, Indiana University, 2007 -
Specialties
- agent-based modeling
- behavioral ecology
- evolutionary anthropology