ROB DUNN
Assistant Professor

I am interested in the interactions among species (be they emus and seeds, humans and forehead mites, wolves and tapeworms or ants and other ants) and the diverse consequences of those interactions. At the heart of the research in the lab is an approach that combines field experiments with large scale observational studies of the distribution of species, traits, and interactions. Mystery still lurks around ordinary corners. If you are interested in becomming involved in the lab, contact me at Rob_Dunn "@" ncsu.edu.

MIKE WEISER
Postdoc

I am interested in patterns of biological diversity across spatial and temporal scales. At the largest scales, I am interested in how biogeographical history and current conditions generate and maintain gradients in taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional trait diversity. At local and regional scales, I am interested in how large-scale patterns influence and constrain patterns of diversity at smaller scales. Website | email

SEAN MENKE
Postdoc

My research integrates the study of ecology, behavior and evolution into the fields of biogeography, community ecology and invasion biology by using modeling and experimental techniques to link patterns of species occurrence with processes that determine species persistence, coexistence, and movement across spatial scales. My most recent research has focused on 1) The transition in life history traits of species between natural and urban environments 2) How urbanization and biological invasions effect geographic patterns of diversity and 3) The importance of biotic and abiotic determinants of invasion success. Website | email

BENOIT GUENARD
PhD candidate

I'm interested in the ecology, behavior and biogeography of ants. My research focuses on the ecology and some behavioral traits of the invasive ant Pachycondyla chinensis. I investigate the effects of P. chinensis on other arthropods, especially on ant communites in forested areas of North Carolina. I am also interested in comparing the biological traits between its native and introduced range to determine which ones could provide advantages for invasiveness. During my time in Dunn’s lab, I have developed a strong interest for ant biogeography and tried to develop tools such as maps on the generic distribution of ants. I am always eager to learn and work more on ants. During my spare time, I try to capture the magnificence of nature with the help of a camera. . Website | email

JUDITH CANNER
PhD candidate

ants redisperse seeds
fruits... and spring are warming fast
will warm ants change too?

.Website | email

NYEEMA HARRIS
PhD candidate

Nyeema Harris studies carnivores and parasites and the complicated moments when, like chocolate and peanut butter they come together, for the Reeses peanut butter cup of ecological interactions, parasitism. She studies why there are few parasites some places and more others, what happens when hosts become rare and what influences why some individuals (say, for example, you) have lots of parasites and others have few. The answers to these questions relate to conservation and public and animal health and they are also just gnarly, complicated and fascinating. Website | email

MARK BOUDREAU
Technician
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Website | email