Pamela KittelsonFaculty

My work is driven by a curiosity about the processes and organisms that make life on our planet so unique.  While humans are an amazing species, our interactions with other living beings can have a large, negative impact. My research focuses on how habitat fragmentation and loss affect plant populations, specifically how variability can change when population sizes are reduced. My research students and I document changes to genetic diversity, plant traits and functional responses.  We have found that small and/or isolated habitats can erode genetic variability over time, which can result in populations less able to make a living or respond to change.

I find joy in sharing my love of biology with students in the classes I teach and via the research I do.  I am fascinated by how plants make a living from light and use it to tell time or if neighbors are nearby, or how they can communicate with other organisms using diverse biochemicals.  I enjoy opportunities for experiential education, where we muck about in the field, observe patterns, learn from one another, collect interesting data, wonder, respect and make connections. 

I also advise and support students applying for nationally competitive scholarships and fellowships such as Fulbright, Truman, Udall, Critical Language and Goldwater among others.  I help students develop a narrative that connects their skills, interests and contributions with their future goals. 

Finally, I am the Director of the Midstates Consortium of Math and Science, which connects faculty and undergraduate students from 12 colleges and universities to promote excellence in STEM research.

Courses Taught