Research Areas

Dr. Hoverman’s lab investigates how natural and human-induced environmental factors interact to shape ecological communities, particularly in freshwater systems. The team focuses on understanding the ecological and evolutionary processes that shape community dynamics, particularly in amphibians and aquatic invertebrates. Their research spans community ecology, disease ecology, and ecotoxicology, using a mix of lab experiments, mesocosm studies, and fieldwork. The lab is especially interested in how multiple stressors, such as pollutants and pathogens, interact to influence species interactions and biodiversity. They also contribute to conservation efforts, including work on the endangered hellbender salamander through the “Help the Hellbender” initiative.