Welcome to the Griffis-Kyle Lab
My research and that of my students is focused on how anthropogenic disturbance influences (1) wildlife habitat relationships at the population and community levels, and (2) the sensitivity and vulnerability of natural resources to environmental change. We specialize in wetland ecology and desert and grassland ecology. My lab's ultimate goal is to improve our ability to effectively manage natural resources.
I strongly believe that human diversity is critical for creating innovative solutions to the complex problems we are facing in natural resources management. Therefore, I am committed to increasing the recruitment, retention, and success of underrepresented groups in science through a lab culture of dignity, inclusion, and empowerment.
Classes Taught
NRM 2307 Diversity of Life
(3 credits)
Principles of evolution, genetics, and biodiversity
as related to the conservation and management of
natural resources. This course will examine issues
of biodiversity from the level of the genes to the
level of the biosphere. Fulfils Texas Tech
University General Education Requirement. Offered in
Spring Sememsters and occasionally in the first
summer semster.
NRM 3407 Plant Inventory and
Wildlife Techniques (4 credits)
Basic methodology of practical of plant and wildlife
sampling and research. Offered every Fall semester
NRM 4324 Tropical Ecology
and Conservation (3 credits)
Survey of tropical ecology and conservation in
Costa Rica - offered some summers.
NRM 4301 Tropical Avian Ecology (3
credits)
Study of the birdlife of tropical ecosystems. Focus
on recording observations in a field notebook,
identification and behavior. Some summers.
NRM 5307 Wetland Ecology
(3 credits)
Advanced study in the structure and functioning of
wetland ecosystems; including current literature on
ecology and management of wetlands. Fall odd years
