Research in the Light lab is focused broadly in evolutionary biology with a focus on systematics, population genetics, and coevolutionary associations between distantly related organisms, particularly mammals and their parasites. In general, our research relies on field work and Museum specimens, and we use molecular and morphological data from recently collected and ancient specimens to help elucidate broad evolutionary processes operating in distantly related taxa. Please see the Projects and Publications page for more examples of ongoing research in the Light lab.

​***BLACK LIVES MATTER*** I pledge to oppose racism & hate through active allyship and continual unlearning, learning, and listening and I expect the same of my colleagues. I pledge to use my tenured position for anti-racist purposes. Please see the Anti-Discrimination Resources page for useful reading and resources. 
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News!
News Archive

May 2023

• SUPER BIG CONGRATULATIONS to Natalie! She successfully defended her PhD. Congratulations Dr. Hamilton!!
• Spring semester 2023 in the books!

April 2023

• Nearing the end of the semester.....
• Jessica received an Honorary Professor Award in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Students nominate faculty for this award. Read all about it here

Contact the Light Lab
Texas A&M University
Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology
Biodiversity Research and Teaching Collections
Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
​Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetics
Mailing address: 534 John Kimbrough Blvd., TAMU 2258; College Station, TX 77843
JEL Office: 268 Wildlife, Fisheries and Ecological Sciences (Building 1537). 979-458-4357
​Follow Jessica on Twitter @je_light

This website was last updated 16 May 2023