Dr. Katriona Shea

Professor of Biology and Alumni Professor in the Biological Sciences

Department:  Biology
College:  Eberly College of Science
Address:  415 Mueller
Phone:  814-865-7910
E-mail: k-shea@psu.edu
Website: http://kshealab.wordpress.com/

 

Management of Invasive Species

The Shea Lab studies the ecology and management of invasive species, as well as plant responses to early life stress. In particular, we study musk thistle (Carduus nutans) and plumeless thistle (Carduus acanthoides), two environmentally and economically damaging plant species. Native to Eurasia, both thistles have spread around much of the world, and are major pest species in North America. We are working to understand why these weeds have been so successful and to predict how environmental change will alter the effectiveness of weed management practices and weed biology. We also study plant responses to early life stress using a model system of cress (Lepidium sativum), a microgreen. In this system, we focus on response to disturbances including drought and nutrient stress.

Research questions include:

• How does disturbance affect the success of introduced species?
  • How will climate change affect the population growth and spread of musk thistle?
  • How does land use history affect musk and plumeless thistle distribution?
  • How does stress in the early life period affect response to later life stress?

To answer these questions, we work in the field at Penn State’s agricultural farm, in the greenhouses on campus, and in the lab. We also use ecological theory to develop management recommendations. We are seeking motivated undergraduate researchers to help with any aspect of this work, which may include dissecting flower heads, organizing and analyzing data, and monitoring plant growth in the lab, greenhouses or field. Interested students may work with Dr. Shea directly, work primarily under the direction of a graduate student, or may design and carry out their own projects if they wish.