Judy Che-Castaldo

Advisor: Dr. David Inouye

Previous Education:
B.A. Biology College of William and Mary

Research Interests:
My research focuses on the ecological interactions of a metal-hyperaccumulating plant.  Plants that can uptake high amounts of heavy metals are not only of evolutionary and biological interest, but also have economic value in their potential use in remediating polluted soils.  However, the ecology of these plants is poorly understood, and field studies are especially lacking.  I am currently running field and greenhouse experiments to examine the population dynamics and competitive ability of the cadmium and zinc hyperaccumulator Thlaspi caerulescens (Brassicaceae).  My field sites include abandoned mines similar to those where T. caerulescens may be planted for phytoremediation.  It is my intention that the results from these studies may also provide insights into the ecological impacts of introducing a non-native plant for remediation purposes.

Location of Research:
Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL)
Crested Butte, CO 81224

Publications:
LeClerc, J.E., Che, J.P., Swaddle, J.P., & Cristol, D.A. 2005. Reproductive success and developmental stability of eastern bluebirds (Sialia sialis) on golf courses: evidence that golf courses can be productive. Wildlife Society Bulletin 33(2): 483-493.

Swaddle, J.P., Che, J.P., & Clelland, R.E. 2004. Symmetry preference as a cognitive by-product in starlings. Behaviour 141, 469-478.

Funding Sources:
2004-2008 Gates Millennium Scholar scholarship, Gates Foundation. Merit-based funding for minority students pursuing higher education in the sciences.

2008 Max and Vera Britton Environmental Science Award

2008 Cosmos Scholars Award, Cosmos Club Foundation

2009 NSF Doctoral Dissertation Improvement Grant: Ecology and the Use of a Metal-Hyperaccumulating Plant in Phytoremediation.