FRI Biology Stream

Biodiversity Discovery

behavior, biodiversity, ecology, evolution, herpetology, systematics, taxonomy

our research

Our Research


The Biodiversity Discovery stream aims to increase our understanding of biodiversity and its evolutionary history. We ask questions about the ecology, evolution, behavior, and natural history of organisms (mostly amphibians and reptiles) using a variety of field and lab-based approaches. Our work relies heavily on preserved specimens from natural history collections at UT and from museums around the world that we borrow to discover and describe new species.

Student looking through microscope
scientist

Our Strategy


Biodiversity Discovery stream students are engaged in both the process and analysis toward our research goals.  Researchers are trained to 'think like a scientist' by developing and using critical thinking skills to create new knowledge through research.

 

Biodiversity Discovery researchers will focus on how to:

  • use a variety of approaches and methods, including DNA sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, computed tomography (CT) scanning, and bioacoustics analysis
  • apply best practices for data science using the R statistical software environment for analysis and visualization
  • search for, interpret, and synthesize published primary scientific literature related to the field and evaluate it through critique
  • make arguments from evidence and work together with peers to find solutions
  • apply research skills to collect data, and use those data to formulate and test hypotheses and create new scientific knowledge
  • scientific communication
Impact
Profile image of Tom  Devitt

Tom Devitt

  • Assistant Professor of Practice
  • Freshman Research Initiative
  • College of Natural Sciences
  • Texas Field Station Network
  • Biodiversity Center

Research Educator | Biodiversity Discovery Stream

Profile image of David Cannatella

David Cannatella

  • Professor
  • Department Chair
  • Integrative Biology
  • Texas Field Station Network
  • Biodiversity Center

Associate Director for Collections, Biodiversity Center

Profile image of David Hillis

David Hillis

  • Professor
  • Director, Biodiversity Center
  • Alfred W. Roark Centennial Professor in Natural Sciences
  • Integrative Biology
  • Texas Field Station Network
  • Biodiversity Center
  • Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Programs