PhD. Candidate in Ecology, Department of Zoology & Physiology

Graduate Fellow

Topics Eriek Can Bring to Your Classroom:

Ecology,

Aquatic Ecology and Ichthyology (fish),

Global Positioning Systems

Education:

I am studying how surface ice-cover in rivers affects fish. There are many different aspects of ice-cover in rivers and fish.  First, I am interested in if fish change their activity patterns when there is ice-cover.  Second, I am interested in how ice-cover changes water temperatures and how this affects fish energy use.  Third, I am interested in how climate change will change ice patterns and how this will affect fish.

Background:

I was born and raised in Payson, Utah.  I lived in Logan, Utah for nine years before moving to Laramie, Wyoming in the fall of 2007 to start my PhD.  I enjoy spending time in the outdoors and visiting National Parks.  I am also an avid hunter and fisherman. I enjoy science, and I really enjoy teaching science!  My interests are broad, and I find that students have fascinating questions and research ideas that help me learn more.  I am training for a career teaching at the college level where I can conduct research and outreach working with the public and K-12 students.