Jacob Suissa, Ph.D. he/him (Principal Investigator)

I am an evolutionary biologist focused on how plant form and function evolves. To answer these questions I study ferns, one of the oldest and most diverse plant lineages. 

I believe that art and science are two sides of the same coin. Plants, with their diversity of shapes, colors, and structures, provide a perfect medium for displaying this integration. In addition to my work as a scholar, I am an avid nature photographer and science communicator, using plants to inspire people to enjoy and appreciate the natural world. 

Email: jsuissa@utk.edu       CV   

Dusty Prater he/him (Doctoral student)

Born and raised in Notchy Creek, Tennessee, my love for the natural world and all life forms was instilled in me from a young age. That love has led me to study biology at Roane State Community College and then Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville as an undergraduate, finishing in Spring 2023. During that time, I became fascinated by plants—specifically ferns—and their dispersal mechanisms. This fascination has led me to pursue a masters degree in the BotanEE lab studying the evolution and ecophysiology of the Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis) across its latitudinal range in North America. When I am not studying ferns, you can find me tutoring students, hanging out with friends, reading a good novel, or volunteering with local nonprofits. 

Email: dprater6@vols.utk.edu  Website link

Cassie Edmonds she/her (Masters student)

Growing up surrounded by the alligators, pines, and mangroves of North Florida, I learned how much I loved seeing patterns in the way organisms specialize for their environment and the constraints that their development puts on that specialization. Plants provide a beautiful and often underappreciated model to study these phenomena. I hope to use plants to answer questions about the internal and external pressures that create these patterns through my research. Outside of research, I enjoy fiber arts, going on hikes, and learning new languages. You’re most likely to find me reading or crocheting in a coffee shop downtown or spending a day in the smokies.

Email: dedmon11@vols.utk.edu 

Susana Vega Betancur (Doctoral student)

I grew up in a rural area of Medellin, Colombia surrounded by tropical forest and mountains. My early experiences in the biodiversity of Colombia helped hone my passion for plants and fieldwork. I worked for four years as a research assistant for the NSF funded Ferns of Colombia project traveling all over the country collecting rare and new species. I have also studied the taxonomy, morphology, and nomenclature of Neotropical Selaginella species for more than 8 years. For my PhD, I plan to continue studying Selaginella but from an evolutionary perspective. When I'm not studying Selaginella I like to swim, be outside, travel, and drink coffee.

Email: svegabet@vols.utk.edu

Justyn Koenig he/him (Research Associate and Laboratory Manager)

I have been hooked on plants since I was a child. My love and curiosity of the botanical world led me to getting my B.S. in Plant Sciences and Biological Sciences from the University of Rhode Island. My interest in pteridophyte ecology and evolution was sparked during that time and ultimately led to me joining the BotanEE lab. When I am not in the lab you can find me outside looking for ferns and lycophytes, hunting for fossils, or reading about the prairie. 

Email: jkoenig6@utk.edu 

Blake Califf he/him (Undergraduate research intern Ecology & Evolutionary Biology) 

Since a young age, I have been fascinated by the natural world. I enjoy studying biology because it proves there is always an answer to questions regarding our planet. I plan to take what I learn as a member of the BotanEE lab and apply it when I eventually pursue a postgraduate degree. When I am not in the lab or out doing fieldwork, I am on the soccer pitch, exploring the city of Knoxville, or cheering on my fellow Vols at sporting events.

Giselle Reyes (Undergraduate research intern Therapeutic Recreation) 

I’ve always been fascinated by how science helps us understand and improve the world around us. I was born and raised in North Georgia, surrounded by nature and the outdoors. This led me to become passionate about biology and learning more about the living organisms around me. I am currently pursuing a BS in Therapeutic Recreation. My goal is to one day earn a postgraduate degree in Anesthesiology, where I can combine my love for science with meaningful impact in healthcare. I’m passionate about using science to advance healthcare and make a positive impact on people’s lives. In my free time when I am not in the lab or focusing on my academics, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, going to the gym, spending time outside, getting coffee, and expressing my creativity through arts and crafts.

Olivia Wheelockshe/her (Undergraduate research intern) 

I am currently a Junior at UTK. Throughout my time here, I have developed a passion for environmental remediation and conservation. I have always loved spending time outdoors. In my free time, I enjoy paddleboarding, hiking, gardening, and playing the piano. Having the opportunity to research ferns and work alongside others who are passionate about the environment is something I am very excited for this semester.

Rafael Bonilha Van'T Hof (Undergraduate research intern) 

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, I have always been fascinated by the world around me. This fascination became focused on plants after my mother started a garden. As a plant science major at the University of Tennessee, I hope to learn as much as possible about plants and gain skills that will help me better share my love of them with others. Outside of the lab you can find me fencing or doing timber sports. 

Amelia Williams (Undergraduate research intern) 

Born and raised in Rockford, Minnesota, currently a Junior at UTK studying Microbiology and Italian. I have always been intrigued by the natural world and how all organisms interact with each other. My goal is to go on to research the climate. I enjoy spending time outdoors, being with friends and family, and staying active. I am very excited to be surrounded by like-minded people who share my passion for science and research. 

Deborah Shaw (Undergraduate research intern) 

Climbing trees, playing with dirt, and visiting the mountains every summer definitely showed where my love for science first started. Living in the Northwest corner of Tennessee allowed for my start in scientific engagement with agriculture/plant life early. I'm currently working towards my BS in Public Health and then aim to someday go on to medical school to focus on pediatrics. Besides having a love for science, I also enjoy playing soccer and tennis, taking long walks, going line dancing, and listening to music.

Makenna Wevick (Undergraduate research intern) 

As a kid growing up near Nashville, I was often found playing with worms and catching butterflies in my yard. This is where my first fascination with nature started. It eventually grew into a brief interest in foraging, then into an interest in the plants themselves. Now, I am currently a junior with a major in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and a minor in Entomology and Plant Pathology. I am super excited to a part of this lab and to be able to dig deeper into ferns with my fellow researchers! When I'm not studying, you can find me curled up with my cat or painting with my friends.