Lab members
Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology and Physiology
Affiliate Curator, Museum of Vertebrates
Jessie has broad interests in avian evolution, ecology, and ecophysiology, particularly as they relate to how birds live and move in high-elevation environments. She loves doing science in collaborative teams and prefers to be above 3,000 meters in elevation. When not studying birds, Jessie likes to bird at migrant traps, hike, and explore Wyoming's quirky outdoor spots.
jessie.williamson@uwyo.edu
CV | Google Scholar | Twitter/X | BlueSky
Margie has a passion for asking (and answering) questions, whether they're about the human-wildlife conflict with Andean Condors in Ecuador or the relationship between flower phytochemicals and nectar-feeding birds. Margie has been a birder since 12 years of age and loves being immersed in academic study/research. Margie also likes to stay physically active, practice Spanish, and explore the outdoors.
mhemp@uwyo.edu
Collin is interested in the evolutionary, ecological, and eco-physiological dynamics that facilitate movement across environmental gradients, particularly in alpine birds that migrate between high and low elevations. He is passionate about integrating contemporary field data with museum collections to explore questions that span broad spatial and temporal scales. Outside of his studies, he enjoys photography, hiking, listening to and playing music, and exploring new places through birding.
cporte26@uwyo.edu
Ornithology at University of Wyoming
Past mentees & lab alumni
*Indicates co-author on peer-reviewed manuscript(s)
Post-baccalaureate researchers
Cristhian Felix Caballero (2022)
LyAndra Lujan (2020)
Selina Bauernfeind* (2018-2019)
Manuela Brugger (2015)
Undergraduates
Akanksha Basil (2023-2025)
Jaden Thompson (2023-2025)
Ryan Zucker* (2023-2025)
David Benvent (2023-2024)
Dani Wiley* (2017-2022)
Kyana Montoya* (2020-2022)
Javier Reinoso (2017-2019)
Yessi Velásquez Taramona (2018)
Benjamin West (2014)