Research in the Skogen Lab combines a variety of different scientific approaches to answer broad-scale conservation questions to ultimately guide policy and management decisions. In particular, the research that my students and I conduct integrates data on demography, reproductive biology, population genetics, and threats imposed by anthropogenic activities, including nitrogen deposition, habitat fragmentation and climate change.

My primary research program focuses on understanding pollinator-mediated gene flow (long distance dispersal by hawkmoths), selection for floral traits important in pollinator attraction and fidelity, and assessing the generality of patterns across different groups of plants. We use field, greenhouse, and molecular data to explore patterns of phenotypic (floral morphology, nectar, floral scent and vegetative characteristics) and neutral genetic (microsatellite) variation in this endemic species. This project has recently been expanded to determine whether the patterns found in O. harringtonii are also found in other hawkmoth-pollinated species with similar floral traits, including Castilleja sessiliflora. Additional research projects include CARICE, which seeks to identify native forb species for use in large-scale restoration efforts in the western United States.

To learn more, please visit Research and People.