ABOUT
I am an integrative ornithologist interested in the evolution, ecology, and physiology of mountain birds. I bring together field research, museum collections, and population genomics to examine how movement across environmental gradients interacts with local adaptation, with a primary focus on rosy-finches (genus Leucosticte).
This research is the essence of my ongoing doctoral project in the Williamson Lab at the University of Wyoming, where I also serve as a graduate research assistant for an NSF-funded project studying adaptive divergence in giant hummingbirds of the Andes (genus Patagona). I also prepare specimens for the Museum of Vertebrates and assist with migratory bird banding and outreach events through WYOBIRD.
Beyond my research, I manage to dedicate even more of my time to birds as an active birder and wildlife photographer. I also enjoy listening to both very long playlists and vinyl records, hiking with backpacks overly full with camera equipment, occasionally playing the trombone, and a smattering of other hobbies. Check out some of my photography while you’re here!
Collin Porter, Jessie Williamson, Margie Hemp
I’m passionate about uniting disciplines to explore a variety of eco-evolutionary questions, as well finding opportunities to share science with broader audiences. I credit much of my appreciation for integrative research and science communication to wonderful mentors at the Field Museum of Natural History, the Chicago Botanic Garden, and various other projects, who provided meaningful post- and pre-baccalaureate experiences in subjects ranging from landscape ecology to evolutionary ecology. If you’re interested in collaborating in any capacity, please feel free to reach out at Collin.Porter [at] uwyo.edu!
