Research

I work on the behavioral ecology and neuroethology of social dynamics in territorial animals using Anolis carolinensis lizards. I examine the role of arginine vasotocin in mediating territorial and reproductive interactions through the visual and chemical sensory systems. My current work focuses on the neural processes involved in establishment and maintenance of dominant-subordinate relationships and acquisition of mating opportunities. My previous work demonstrated the important role of chemical signals in mediating territorial space use in the field, and emphasized species and individual differences in chemical signal composition. My research integrates behavioral assays in the field and lab with techniques from neuroethology and analytical chemistry (gas and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry) to understand how dynamic changes in social relationships are chemically-mediated, either internally via neurotransmitters or externally via chemical communication.