Jeff Matthews, Associate Professor

Jeff is a plant ecologist. He uses field experiments and observational studies of plant communities in natural and restored ecosystems to understand the drivers of change in ecological communities and apply that understanding to challenges in restoration.

Chelsea Peterson, PhD Student

Chelsea is investigating the carbon storage capacity of restored wetlands. She is interested in how restoration methods, site age, and hydrological conditions affect the ability of restored wetlands to store carbon in soils and vegetation. Chelsea is also studying the impacts of recent changes in wetland policies on the jurisdictional status of wetlands throughout Illinois.

Weiqing Qu, PhD Student

Weiqing’s research focuses on plant species’ sensitivity to climate change. Weiqing is interested in how factors such as regional environmental context shape large-scale patterns of species’ climate sensitivity.

Hayley Edlund, MS Student

Hayley is researching the effects of agricultural pesticides, seeding diversity, and non-native plant invasion in restored prairies. Hayley is investigating methods to control the invasive legume Lespedeza cuneata in grasslands.

Jillian Bennett, Undergraduate Researcher

Jillian is researching how county and municipal ordinances protect wetlands in the United States.