For the better part of my career I have spent my time exploring the evolutionary dynamics of biological systems in the broadest sense. I believe that by understanding how populations evolve in the face of changing environmental conditions we can develop long-term solutions to just about any problem. Whether it is a farmer looking to adapt to the effects of climate change or a newly arriving insect species colonizing a foreign agricultural landscape, evolutionary solutions to ecological problems are constantly emerging.

While I am formally trained as an evolutionary ecologist and agricultural entomologist, my research interests are quite diverse. I simply enjoy working with great people on pressing issues at the nexus of agriculture and the environment. I am also fully committed to the use of Participatory Action Research (PAR) methods for all of my projects. Top down research is quickly becoming an antiquated paradigm. Most recently, my projects have centered upon developing novel techniques (with farmers!) for sustainable pest management in Vermont, but that is just the tip of iceberg. There are interesting questions in every milpa and solutions to be found in every collaboration.

In the support of my PAR work, I am also the co-founder of the Vermont Entomology and Particpatory Action Research Team (VEPART).  In collaboration with co-founder Scott Lewins (UVM Extension), VEPART looks to engage local growers in the research process from hypothesis generation to farmer-to-farmer workshops. It is our belief that lasting change can only be accomplished through equitable and horizontal research processes.

As the Head of Undergraduate Education of the IFA, a faculty member within the Plant and Soil Science Department and the Environmental Studies Program here at UVM, I spend a lot of my time in the classroom. The diversity of my interests is reflected in my course offerings.