Kelly L. O’Donnell
I am interested in the evolutionary ecology of invasive plant species. I am specifically fascinated by the roles that natural selection and phenotypic plasticity play in the aggressive expansion of introduced species outside of their native ranges. I have worked with Polygonum spp., Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed), and Lythrum salicaria (Purple Loosetrife).
Research Interests
Quick Info
Education:
PhD, Ecology and Evolution, Stony Brook University 2010
BS, Biology, Cornell University 2004
Contact Info:
gmail: klodonnell
Useful Links
I have been involved in some form of teaching since I was an undergraduate TAing an introductory biology course. I have experience teaching general biology, plant ecology and evolution, the scientific method, and critical thinking in science. I believe that introductory science courses should move towards more inquiry-based learning. I have helped to redesign and implement a courses that does just that at Stony Brook University. I find it particularly rewarding to develop activities that immerse a student in an idea or a research topic and have them learn about it by asking questions, discussing with peers, and designing experiments.
Teaching Interests
