Devin N Jones, Ph.D.

My current research focuses on the use and optimization of eDNA sampling as a tool for biomonitoring. I am currently using eDNA samples collected with an autonomous robot to determine how this type of sampling affects our ability to measure and monitor fish diversity over time. My past research has been centered around applying a variety of molecular techniques to monitor wildlife health. More specifically, my dissertation research focused on the gastrointestinal tract microbiome of Australian flying foxes. I assessed whether seasonal changes in food availability corresponded to changes in the flying fox microbiomes and how these shifts related to bats’ ability to maintain and transmit infectious diseases. My master’s research assessed bat diets and associations with microcystin (a naturally occurring algal hepatotoxin) ingestion and bioaccumulation.