Natalie A. Wright

I study bird biology and evolution. My research addresses such questions as: Why do birds vary so widely in their flight styles & abilities? How do predation, competition, and sexual selection drive the evolution and maintenance of flight? What are the consequences of different flight strategies on birds' biology, life history, ecology, and evolution?

I tend to work at evolutionary time scales, focusing on differences among populations or species. I use phylogenetic comparative methods in combination with detailed biomechanics studies to test these evolutionary ecology questions. Much of my research involves museum collections and databases, to which I have contributed through specimen collection and preparation.

I value community building and collaboration. My first and most important job as an educator and scientist is to support my students. I am proud that my labgroup is a welcoming space where students of many different backgrounds, races, sexual orientations, and gender identities feel safe to be themselves. My greatest professional joy is watching my students grow, learn, and thrive.

I am a mom of two whose kids sometimes tag along during summer research and weekend fieldwork, “helping” my students.

I am a member of the Village Council of Gambier, where I aim to make our community safer, greener, more equitable, more people-focused, and less car-dominated.