Jen Schweitzer
My research program focuses on the eco-evolutionary linkages between plants, soils, soil communities and ecosystem processes. I focus on the complex interactions and feedbacks between above- and below-ground processes in a variety of global change contexts.
Email: Jen.Schweitzer@utk.edu
Rachel Wooliver
My research aims to explore the evolutionary and ecological drivers of variation in plant performance in a changing world. My current work addresses whether macroevolutionary variation in species’ responses to nitrogen enrichment are consistent with selection across environmental gradients and functional constraints, and how plant interactions with soil microorganisms mediate their responses to nitrogen enrichment.
Email: rwoolive@utk.edu
Webpage: http://rwoolive.wix.com/rachelwooliver.com/ecoevo
Liam Mueller
I am excited to be investigating plant colonization and how specific phenotypes are better at surviving in these harsh environments. My current field site on the Island of Hawai’i offers interesting questions in both ecology, evolution and biogeochemistry. Specifically, I want to investigate how Metrosideros polymorpha (Ohia) colonizes recent lava flows and what plant-“soil” feedbacks are created in these harsh conditions. I am originally from the Island of Oahu and as a result, I love the ocean. My other interests include theater, cooking, and exploring.
Email: lmuelle3@utk.edu
Kendall Beals
I am interested in bridging mechanistic dynamics of above- and below-ground trait linkages in plant-soil feedbacks to better understand variation in plant functional responses on the landscape. I currently work with Solidago spp. (Goldenrod) to investigate the role of soil microbial communities on mediating plant trait variation. Outside of the lab, I’m often hiking in the Appalachians or on the tennis court.
Email: kbeals2@utk.vols.edu
Webpage: http://kendallbeals.com/ecoevo
Former lab members
Alix Pfennigwerth
MS 2017
Current position: Ecologist, U.S. Geological Survey
Email: apfennig@vols.utk.edu
Michael Van Nuland
PhD 2017
Current position: Post-doctoral researcher, Peay Lab, Stanford University
Email: mvannula@stanford.edu
Webpage: http://michaelvannuland.com/
Mark Genung
PhD 2012, co-advised with Joe Bailey
Current position: Post-doctoral researcher Winfree Lab Rutgers University
Email: mark.a.genung@gmail.com
Webpage: http://markgenungecology.com/
Emmi Felker-Quinn
PhD 2012, co-advised with Joe Bailey
Current position: ORISE Post-Doctoral Fellow, National Center for Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
email: Felker-Quinn.Emmi@epamail.epa.gov
Clara Pregitzer
MS 2010
Current position: PhD Student, Yale University, Bradford Lab
Email: clara.pregitzer@gmail.com
Some of the many fantastic undergraduate researchers who have worked in the lab!
Terrell Carter (2016-current)
Han Noh (2016-current)
Amber Odum (2015-2016)
Peter Meidl (2013-2015)
Caroline Daws (2013-2015)
Charles Witt (2015)
Hannah Long (2012-2013)
Kelli McLane (2012)
Danny Lusk (2011)
Naeko Omomo (2011)
John Senior (2011)
Devin Jones (2009-2010)
Brett Ashenfelter (2008-2011)
Nicole Hergott (2008-2010)
Derek Dawson (2008-2010)
Logan Elmore (2008-2009)
Emily Giles (2007)