Research Interests (300 words)
I am investigating the effects of atmospheric chemistry on plant-pollinator interactions. My research lies at the intersection of atmospheric science and chemical ecology. I am currently developing new analytical tools for measuring the concentrations of volatile organic compounds and aerosols in the air using atmospheric pressure interface mass spectrometry. I am also doing field research on the pollination ecology of coastal and inland dune plants, upon which my investigation of atmospheric effects will be based. This research involves locating potential dune plant habitat by surveying aerial images and site surveys, documenting pollinator observations, assessing the contribution of select pollinators to the reproductive success of the plant, and finally, investigating the impact of atmospheric contaminants on these plant-pollinator interactions. There is also a behavioral neurobiological aspect to my research, as atmospheric contaminants are known to affect the perception of floral odors by pollinators. This research will involve conducting electroantennographic studies on select pollinators, to ascertain the effects of atmospheric chemistry on the insect antennal response to floral scents,. Subsequently, this electroantennographic data will be used to predict/explain changes in pollinator response to flowers of interest in the presence of atmospheric contaminants in a lab setting, and ultimately to predict/explain field observations.