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DALE M. MADISONProfessor of Biological Sciences Research InterestsThe current emphasis in my laboratory is on amphibian behavioral ecology, especially among salamanders in forest floor communities. My long-term focus is on the chemosensory dynamics and optimization of predator-prey interactions between snakes and salamanders. Multiple graduate and undergraduate projects include monitoring the seasonal habitat use and survival strategies of caudate species (Notopthalmus viridescens and Cryptobranchus alleganiensis), modeling the seasonal dynamics of foraging and reproduction in Plethodon cinereus, investigating developmental shifts in the predator-prey association of Plethodon cinereus and Thamnophis sirtalis, and using satellite GPS, GIS and radiotelemetry to monitor the movements and reproductive ecology of timber rattlesnakes. Contact InformationContact Dale M. Madison, S3, 375, ext. 7-2397. Types of Research Experiences AvailableThere is a full range of ongoing laboratory and field research projects among a large number of undergraduate and graduate students in my laboratory. Besides the typical lab meetings and discussions of theory, hypothesis testing, and experimental design, specialty techniques include the use of radiotelemetry in field studies and the associated surgical implant procedures. Olfactometer and substrate chemoreception procedures are also routine. Animal census/population studies are typical among the field projects. PrerequisitesPreference for students with sophomore/junior standing who have some field or research experience. At least one course in ecology (BIOL 360) or animal behavior (BIOL 363 or 464) is recommended. Students are expected to commit 10 hours per week to research. First-time researchers often work as apprentices to graduate students; second- and third-semester researchers become fully involved in their own projects, often culminating in a publication and/or an honors thesis.
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