I am interested in how ecology and evolutionary components contribute to the behavior of animals. My research involves examining behavioral variation across gradients. Part of my research involves examining the African giant pouched rat (Cricetomys ansorgei) to determine the extent to which they demonstrate behavioral syndromes and if there is a genetic component to the behavioral differences. I am expanding my research to examine behavioral differences of small rodents across urban gradients in the St. Louis Metropolitan region.

My science outreach efforts emphasize sharing science to general audiences, particularly under-served groups, via outdoor programming and social media. My work includes The Urban Scientist a blog about urban ecology, evolutionary biology and diversity in the sciences, hosted by Scientific American Blog Network. I am also co-founder of the National Science & Technology News Service, a media advocacy organization.

To inquire about my speaking, presenting or consulting services, please email me. You can follow my updates about education, science, STEM outreach & diversity on Twitter at @DNLee5

Education:
PhD Biology, University of Missouri-St. Louis

Postdoctoral Research, Cornell University; Oklahoma State University

Honors:

2017 National Geographic Emerging Explorer

2015 TED Fellow

EBONY Power 100 2014 – Social Media Influencer

White House Champions of Change – STEM Access & Diversity

The Grio 100's Class of 2014 - Science & Technology Leader

Huffington Post Science Scientists on Twitter: 30 Biologists and Chemists to Follow

Top Women in Science to Follow on Twitter – Under the Microscope

2011 Black Weblog Awards Blogging Heroine - Niche Blogging in Science

2011 Young Professional of the Year, Urban League Young Professionals of Metropolitan St. Louis

2009 Diversity Scholar, American Institute of Biological Sciences