My research areas include Ecology, Evolution, Development and Molecular Biology.

My students and I investigate the origin and function of a symbiosis between unicellular green algae and some amphibian egg masses. The approaches and techniques we use to do so include laboratory experiments, structured sampling, cell culture, microscopy, PCR, metabarcoding and genomics.

We also occasionally engage with industry through the StFX Centre for Biofouling Research and a research collaboration with Oberland Agriscience concerning the benefits to agriculture of frass derived from industrial insect production.