Assistant Professor

Department of Biology, UNC Asheville

CPO # 2040, Zeis Hall 307

UNCA Homepage

UNCA Biology

As an undergraduate at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, a public liberal arts college, I learned biology from a cadre of inspirational teachers who led innovative science courses.  Their enthusiasm for the discipline convinced me to pursue undergraduate research and, later, an academic career.  My early research experiences were instrumental in shaping my view of scientists as a dynamic, collaborative community and allowing me explore my own scientific philosophy, style, and interests. 

I pursued graduate work at the College of William & Mary, School of Marine Science (Virginia Institute of Marine Science), working with Emmett Duffy to examine population dynamics, breeding patterns, and the genetic structure of eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) in Chesapeake Bay. After receiving my Ph.D. in 2002, I did post-doctoral research with Mitch Cruzan, examining hybridization processes in a subtropical herbaceous plant.

I joined the University of North Carolina at Asheville's Biology Department in August 2007.  Here, I teach courses including Cellular and Molecular Biology, Principles of Botany, Population Biology, and Ecological Genetics (Senior Seminar). 

My research focuses on ecological genetics (including demography, population genetics, floral traits, gene expression, and phenotypic plasticity) in several different plant systems.  I work closely with UNCA undergraduates and colleagues, as well as with external collaborators.

Current Research

© Jennifer Rhode Ward, 2009

Contact Me!