I work at the interface of empirical, field-based aquatic ecology studies and ecological modeling and forecasting.

As a post-doctoral research associate (2021-present) and Ph.D. student (2016-2021) at Virginia Tech, I have experience in collecting, managing, and analyzing long-term ecological datasets, conducting whole-ecosystem field experiments and intensive field campaigns in lakes and reservoirs, and using ecological models to understand aquatic ecosystem function and predict water quality.

I take a collaborative, team-based approach to improve understanding of aquatic ecosystem function and enable a predictive, pre-emptive approach to water quality management.

I have worked in multiple interdisciplinary teams to study stream and lake ecosystems, including close collaboration with water authority personnel to monitor water quality and help develop hydrological and ecological forecasts in drinking water supply reservoirs.

I use student-driven inquiry and inclusive pedagogy to help ecology students develop data science and systems-thinking skills.

Through experience as an instructor of record at the undergraduate level (2021) and as a high school science teacher (2010-2015), I have developed and implemented curricula for multiple science courses, including lecture, laboratory and field components. I emphasize place-based, experiential education, student-led projects, use of publicly-available ecological datasets, and best practices in inclusive pedagogy in my courses.

Contact

melofton@vt.edu

Follow

Google Scholar
Twitter ResearchGate GitHub

CV

See current CV here.