While my research interests are focused on aquatic ecology, other research interest are focused on carbon sequestration, pollutant runoff from roadways, and native plants for phytoremediation. Multiple research projects are underway in the northern section of the Leon Creek Greenway adjacent to UTSA's Main Campus and students can continue to expand research in this natural area. Collaborative studies are ongoing with Civil and Environmental Engineering focusing on carbon sequestration, pollutants from roadside runoff, and native plant uptake of pollutants.
I am working with Environmental Science and other UTSA faculty to develop a graduate student program designed to provide new graduate students with the tools and resources they need to succeed. We are focused on innovations in mentoring underrepresented students, writing-to-learn environmental science, and public science communication for environmental leaders. Our model seeks to cultivate underrepresented student success in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) graduate education.
Dr. Gwen Young and I have developed relationships with multiple local, state, and federal agencies that offer a wide array of research opportunities for graduate students. Research opportunities are available with the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Natural Areas, San Antonio River Authority, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Camp Bullis, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and several NGOs in the San Antonio area.
View current research projects
Student Research Opportunities
Lab and greenhouse space and multiple field sites are available for various research projects. Students have the opportunity to work with collaborators in the UTSA College of Sciences and College of Engineering on various research projects. Access is available to a 6.8 acre field site on the west side of the UTSA campus for research projects. Other research opportunities are available with the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Natural Areas, San Antonio River Authority, San Antonio Water System, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and several NGOs in the San Antonio area.
Students interested in working with me have to opportunity to pursue the thesis or non-thesis option. The thesis option is available to a limited number of student per year and will require 2 to 2-1/2 years, but the non-thesis option can be completed within 2 years.
I enjoy working with mature and responsible students that are interested and show strong initiative in developing and conducting a successful research project. Graduate students should exhibit a high degree of independence and work with minimal supervision. With all students, I maintain an open door policy to discuss projects, questions, and problems at any time. Students interested in M.S. and Ph.D. opportunities should contact me directly.
