My research, including that of my students, focuses on understanding the systematics, historical biogeography, and evolution of flowering plants.

My ongoing research projects include:

1.) Evolutionary ecological bases of species diversification in the Cashew (Anacardiaceae) and Frankincense and Myrrh (Burseraceae) families. Collaborators: Paul Fine, UC-Berkeley; Susan Pell, BBG; Douglas Daly & John Mitchell, NYBG.

2.) Phylogeny and historical biogeography of Commiphora (Burseraceae). Collaborator: Mark Olson, Missouri Botanical Garden and Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico (UNAM).

3.) Phylogeography of Cordia (Boraginaceae) endemic to the Galapagos. Collaborator: Conley McMullen, James Madison University.

4.) Evolution of the pili nut genus (Burseraceae, Canarium).

In addition to my research and teaching responsibiIities, I am director of the Ted R. Bradley Herbarium at GMU and am engaged in making this valuable resource of information about the Virginia flora available to the public via the internet. Read the 2005 and 2006 Herbarium Annual Report (pdf).

Some recent GMU Gazette articles about my work:

Mason Faculty Members Explore the World in Efforts to Study Environmental Issues: 08/04/2008

Natural Walk Introduces Community to Another Side of Campus:
05/06/2008

Mason's Herbarium Is a Treasure Trove for Scholars: 02/21/2007

Research Experience Shortens Learning Curve for Grad Student: 10/26/2006