Collaborators & Visiting Scholars
Alexandra (Alli) Duffy
Assistant Research Professor, North Carolina State University
Alexandra (Alli) Duffy is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at North Carolina State University. Her research integrates evolutionary biology, animal behavior, sensory ecology, and environmental health. Her lab investigates how selective pressures, such as predation, competition, and pollution, shape phenotypic and genetic diversity within and among populations. Dr. Duffy brings expertise in behavioral trait quantification, chemical communication, and ecological statistics to her collaboration with the PIE lab, which in turn brings a phylogenetic framework to her work. Together, the collaboration bridges micro- and macroevolutionary perspectives to advance a more integrated understanding of trait evolution and biodiversity.
Seth M. Bybee
Professor, Brigham Young University
Seth Bybee is a Professor of Biology at Brigham Young University. Seth's lab focuses on the phylogenetics and evolution of visual systems, especially in Odonata (Dragonflies and Damselflies) and Coleoptera (Beetles). Dr. Powell earned his PhD under the mentorship of Dr. Bybee and continues to collaborate on several projects on both beetles and dragonflies.
Gavin J. Martin
Lecturer, Laramie County Community College
Gavin Martin is a lecturer in the Department of Arts and Sciences at Laramie County Community College. Gavin's work focuses on the taxonomy and evolution of fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae). Dr. Martin also mentors many undergraduate researchers and has recently been partnering with the Powell Lab on several beetle systematics projects with those students.
Lauren M. Weidner
Associate Professor, Arizona State University
July 2025–present
Dr. Weidner is an Associate Professor of Forensic Entomology and the lab director of the Forensic Entomology & Wildlife Laboratory (FEWL) in the School of Interdisciplinary Forensics (SIF) at Arizona State University. The PIE Lab is hosting Dr. Weidner as a visiting scientist at NC State University.