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Current Students in the Leberg Lab More information about current and past students can be found on my CV Giridhar Athrey, PhD Student, 2004-Present
I am very interested in the evolution of small populations; habitat loss and fragmentation have resulted in reduced population size and threaten the long term persistence of several species of organisms. To understand how bird populations respond to change in habitat structure on a temporal and spatial scale, I am studying two endangered species of birds - the Golden-cheeked Warbler and the Black-capped Vireo - that have suffered from the effects of habitat loss over the past century. For more information, visit my personal homepage.
Rebecca Davis, PhD Student, 2009-Present
My primary research interests are ecology, evolution, and behavior of mammals. During my MS, I compared behaviors of wild and captive wolves interacting with bison during a hunt. I am currently studying Eastern spotted skunks (Spilogale putorius) and their ecology in Southern Louisiana. They are an animal of special concern and not much is known on their current range and habitat use in Louisiana. The first stage of the research is to develop a system for detecting their presence. During the second stage, we will evaluate habitat use by the species. Further stages of research are still in development. You may contact me at davisrebeccak@gmail.com. Bridget Nixon, MS Student, 2008-Present
My research focuses on the bat species Myotis septentrionalis, Louisiana's newest mammal. Because of the recent discovery of its range expansion, its ecology in this state has not been widely studied. By performing surveys underneath bridges, I hope to find members of this species as well as gather information on the numbers of other bat species in the area. My goal is to track members of M. septentrionalis with radio telemetry and discover more about their habitat and population size. I also hope to test the technique of ultrasonic playback with this species and note how well it responds to various bat calls. You may contact me at bridgetanixon@gmail.com. Binod Regmi, PhD Student, 2009-Present
I am interested in the application of principles of conservation genetics for management of endangered species. Previously, I worked in Himalayan National Parks in Nepal where I got several opportunities to carry out expeditions in remote and unexplored mountain regions to document status the of endangered/endemic species of flora and fauna. I am currently developing a graduate research topic. You may contact me at binodregmi30@gmail.com. Nicole Hutchison, MS Student, 2009-Present  My research focuses on the conservation genetics and gene flow of Ceuthophilus secretus, a cave cricket that ranges from Dallas, Texas south to Victoria, Texas and throughout the Edwards Plateau. This cave cricket is an important species in the cave ecosystem because they travel outside of the cave at night in search for food. They return to the cave and bring in a source of energy for the cave-limited species that are limited to the interior of the cave. Many of these cave-limited species are now endangered. I will be looking at many populations within the caves of Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas. You can contact me at nhutch227@gmail.com, Scott T Walter, PhD Student, 2006-Present
I am interested in ecological studies that shed light on wildlife and habitat interactions, and how this information can be used to develop wildlife habitat management plans. The brown pelican, the research subject of my dissertation, presents an ideal study organism for assessment of habitat requirements. Since the extirpation of Louisiana’s population in 1963, the species has represented an important conservation concern in the region. My research on coastal barrier islands in Louisiana will hopefully yield information in relation to how nest success, movement patterns, and habitat use vary over spatial and temporal scales. For more information, please contact me at stw@louisiana.edu. Phillip Vasseur, MS Student, 2009-Present
I am interested in the nesting ecology and management of migratory songbirds. Currently, I am developing a research project that will examine the relationship between habitat edges and patch size effects such as nest location, parasitism, and predation on the reproductive success of Painted Buntings (Passerina ciris). My goals are to address key research and information needs such as baseline data of breeding biology for the western population, specific habitat requirements, and interactions with cowbirds. If you are interested in learning more about this project or would like to volunteer during the field season, please contact me at plv3449@louisiana.edu. |
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