Robin Tinghitella

As a behavioral ecologist, I work to understand how rapidly changing environments alter animal communication, particularly interactions between males and females. Researchers in my animal behavior lab use both insect and fish model systems and are supported by the National Science Foundation, the Morris Animal Foundation, the Society for the Study of Evolution, and the Animal Behavior Society (amongst others). I graduated from the University of Portland with a B.S. in Biology before earning my Ph.D. in Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology at the University of California, where I studied the evolution of animal communication and social interactions. I then completed postdoctoral positions at the University of Michigan and Michigan State University (MSU). At MSU I led a National Science Foundation funded project linking ecology graduate students with K-12 teachers and students to improve the scientists’ teaching and communication skills. The experience ignited a long-lasting passion for science education and science communication.