DR. DEAN FRAGA
General Interests: Cell Biology, Neurobiology, Molecular Biology
Specific Research Interests: Electrically excitable membranes are important for the transmission of signals in a variety of cells, the most familiar of which are nerve cells. The electrical properties associated with excitable membranes ultimately derive from the coordinated activation of membrane channels that regulate ion flow across the membrane. Currently I am using a simple model system, Paramecium, to identify signal transduction proteins that regulate and coordinate the ion channel activity of excitable membranes. We have successfully identified the role of two such proteins and are currently attempting to further define their role in the cell. Ultimately this may be applicable to our understanding of nerve cell function. More information
DR. VIKRAM IYENGAR
General Interests: Behavioral Ecology, Chemical Ecology
Specific Research Interests: My research involves the behavioral ecology of insects. Insects are found in almost every conceivable habitat, and these fascinating creatures provide many wonderful opportunities to do both field and laboratory studies. My interests span the ever-expanding field of animal behavior, but my research has focused on sexual selection. Specifically, I have investigated the benefits that females derive through mate choice in systems where chemistry is the language by which individuals communicate. Recent experiments have involved determining the heritability of important traits in an attempt to quantify their relative importance in the evolution of mating preferences.
DR. TERESA JOHNSON
General Interests: microbial ecology with an emphasis on biodegradation of xenobiotics (human-made chemicals) and microbially mediated decay in weeD seeds
Specific Research Interests: One portion of my research is an ongoing investigation of the environmental fate of xenobiotic compounds (compounds that are foreign to living organisms). I am specifically interested in factors affecting biodegradation in terrestrial and subsurface environments.
The ultimate goal of this research is to develop preventative and remedialmeasures for control of surface and subsurface contamination as well as tobetter understand the ecology and range of abilities of terrestrial microorganisms. The second portion of my research is directed toward understanding the role of microorganisms in seed dormancy and decay, with the goal of providing environmentally sound methods for weed control.
DR. MICHAEL KERN
General Interests:Vertebrate Physiology
Specific Research Interests: Functional anatomy of reproductive organs of songbirds. Nest-building behavior of songbirds. Insulation value of songbird nests. Energetics of incubation of songbirds. Humidity in the nests of incubating songbirds.
DR. RICK LEHTINEN
General Interests: Evolution, Population Ecology, Biogeography, Phylogenetics, Conservation Biology, Vertebrates (especially amphibians and reptiles)
Specific Research Interests: Ecologists and evolutionary biologists have long been interested in the factors affecting the distribution and abundance of organisms. The fundamental question here is: why do organisms occur where they do? The answers to this question are many and require understanding of both current (ecological) and past (evolutionary) environments. My research has attempted to answer this seemingly simple question using verbebrate animals as study organisms. A second research interest of mine is the steps involved in the evolution of complex traits. Particularly, I use phylogenetic approaches to study the origin and evolution of reproductive behaviors in tropical frogs. Last, but not least, I am also interested in the causes and consequences of amphibian declines. I look forward to involving Wooster students in these research areas or in any other area of mutual interest.
DR. MARILYN LOVELESS
General Interests: Evolutionary Ecology, Plant Population Ecology, Ecological Genetics, Biological Conservation
Specific Research Interests: I am interested in the genetic organization of plant populations and the effects of ecological factors in shaping population genetic structure. My recent research has focused on pollen and seed dispersal and their effects on genetic changes in plant populations, particularly tropical rain forest species. I also work with the pollination ecology, reproductive biology and evolutionary ecology of plants.
DR. WILLIAM MORGAN
General Interests: Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology with Emphasis on the Simple Worm C. elegans
Specific Research Interests: Communication between cells is required for the proper development of a multicellular organism. My major research focus is to identify some of the molecules necessary for this intercellular communication. Currently I am cloning genes, from the nematode worm C. elegans, which encode proteins that act as receptors for developmental signals in a variety of organisms, including man. Moreover, altered forms of these receptors have also been implicated in cancer. By thoroughly studying these receptors in a simple animal, we hope to better understand how the same types of molecules function in more complex organisms.
Last updated: July 23, 2003 7:00 AM EDT