My lab focuses primarily in the systematic study of plant phylogeny and evolution at different taxonomic levels using a wide array of traditional and molecular techniques. I am particularly interested in the family Cactaceae, in which I am currently investigating aspects of reproductive biology and two key features:

1) the origin, phylogeny, and evolution of epiphytism,
2) the genetic and physiological basis of vivipary and its ecological and evolutionary significance (click to see stages of vivipary in Ferocactus herrerae and stages of vivipary in Epiphyllum phyllanthus), and
3) reproductive biology in the Cactaceae (click here to see the sensitive stamens of O. polyacantha).

Visit the research section of my website for more information on the questions addressed in the above topics and my research program.

My laboratory has capabilites to support a wide range of research studies in plant systematics. Note that previous graduate students and visiting scholars have been engaged in the investigation of several aspects in other plant families, e.g., Asteraceae, Commelinaceae, and Poaceae, as well as the morphological and molecular characterization of arbuscular endomycorrhizal fungi.

I welcome applications from potential graduate students and visitor fellows interested in aspects of plant biology and ethnobotany of temperate and tropical plants as well as those interested in floristic and taxonomic studies involving the Saskatchewan and/or Canadian flora. Do not hesitate to contact me for further information.

Students enrolling in Biology 323.3 "Plants Systematics & Evolution" should contact the herbarium technician to learn the requirements of the project.

COMING SOON! New course in Tropical Botany to be added to the curriculum soon. Check our course page for updates as they become available.