I am interested in combining both ecological theory and conservation genetics to aid in the management and restoration of threatened or endangered species. My research is both field and laboratory oriented and I believe that combining field observations and experimental data is critical when describing patterns of variation seen in nature. I’m also interested in describing variation that can be attributed to both genetic and environmental factors at the level of family groupings in fish species. This includes designing experimental studies to evaluate the influence of different factors, including their interactive effects, on fitness traits.

I also have extensive experience in aquaculture including hatchery design and fish propagation for both freshwater and marine species. Aquaculture is quickly becoming the dominant management prescription for the restoration of numerically depressed populations. I’m interested in identifying and reducing selective pressures within the captive environment in order to increase fitness and associated survival in the natural environment.

For more information on current research please visit my research page.

PhD Candidate

Molecular Ecology Lab

Department of Fisheries & Wildlife

13 Natural Resources Building

Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI 48824

Office Tel: 517.432.4935

E-mail: crossm11 [at] msu.edu