Jeff is primarily interested in the opportunities (and costs) that heterogeneous landscapes confer to animal populations, particularly with respect to aquatic ecosystems across multiple spatial and temporal scales. Jeff aims to connect ecological theory with applied science to develop tractable management strategies that ensure the long-term conservation of ecologically, culturally, and economically valuable species. The focus of Jeff’s dissertation is intentionally broad, combining multiple studies of Snake River cutthroat trout in northwestern Wyoming. Jeff uses observational field studies, statistical modeling techniques, and genomic tools to investigate large-scale population dynamics and eco-evolutionary processes.
Jeff received a B.Sc. in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences with minors in Quantitative Sciences and Marine Biology from the University of Washington (2014). While an undergrad, he explored his ecological interests through field-based programs in the San Juan Islands, WA, Caribbean Panama, and as a technician for environmental NGOs. Post-graduation as a Biologist with the Alaska Salmon Program (UW), Jeff managed a remote research station in Chignik, Alaska where and he and his crew maintained long-term datasets that were used to guide the sustainable management of multi-species commercial and subsistence fisheries. During this time, he and collaborators conducted novel research investigating the opportunities landscape complexity and heterogeneity affords salmonid populations. He also worked briefly as a technician in rural Ecuador (Cornell & CSU), where he assisted with research on how local adaptation along elevational and latitudinal gradients drives vulnerability to climate change.
Outside of science, Jeff develops his understanding and respect of the natural world though rock climbing, backcountry skiing, fly fishing, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting.
Professional Preparation and Appointments
Education
- 2015: B.S., Fisheries Management, Auburn University
Professional Appointments
- 2017-2018: Fisheries Technician. Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Coeur d’Alene, ID
- 2016: Fisheries Technician. Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Laramie, WY
- 2015: Research Technician. Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Laramie, WY
Selected Presentations
Fennell, J. M.,B. Staton, C. Kemp, and R. Wright. March 2015. Changes in caloric density of age-0 coastal largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) across multiple gradients in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Alabama. Southeastern Ecology and Evolution Conference. Athens, Georgia.
Scholarships & Fellowships
2011–2015: Heritage Scholarship, Auburn University
2015: Homer S. Swingle Award, School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University