Claudia Nuñez-Penichet

Fish and Wildlife Conservation, College of Natural Resources and Environment

Track
Research Frontiers

Faculty Mentor
Haldre Rogers
Associate Professor, Fish and Wildlife Conservation

Research Focus
Invasive species represent a major threat to biodiversity, as they can alter ecosystem processes and functions, and often contribute to the decline of imperiled species. In Virginia, there are several invasive plants already established that are affecting natural resources, native biodiversity, and the economy. Others plant species also represent threats to the state due to their potential to invade given their current distribution and natural history traits. Fleshy-fruiting invasive plants are among these species, as many of them rely on highly mobile animals for seed dispersal. The overall goal of this project is to identify the areas in the state of Virginia under the greatest risks from invasion of fleshy-fruiting plants. We will use ecological niche modeling and dispersal simulation methods to detect regions with suitable environments for invasive species and their dispersers, as well as those areas with higher risk after considering plant and animal dispersal abilities. Our results will be crucial for the implementation of early actions to prevent, monitor, and mitigate effects from invasive plant species in the state.

Why did you choose to pursue postdoctoral training at Virginia Tech?
I first visited Virginia Tech during the Future Faculty Diversity Program, where I learned more about the Invasive Species Collaborative, one of the best groups working on invasive species in the United States. Its multidisciplinary and collaborative nature aligns perfectly with my career goals, and the prospect of joining this group highly motivated me to pursue my postdoctoral training at (Virginia Tech). Furthermore, I am eager to work with Dr. Haldre Rogers and Dr. Jacob Barney; they are not only highly recognized researchers in fields relevant to my interests, but they also foster a supportive research environment, making Virginia Tech an ideal place for my professional growth.

What are you most looking forward to as you begin in this fellowship at Virginia Tech?
I look forward to being part of the Virginia Tech community and participating in the mentoring, training, and professional development opportunities available. I am excited about the numerous opportunities for collaboration with the broader Virginia Tech faculty and the chance to contribute to solving real-world problems through my research.