Rhine Singleton, Ph.D.

Department: Environmental Science and Biology
Division: Natural Sciences

Courses taught:
IC100&111: Integrated Science –Environment
BI218: Ecology
BI211: Genetics
BI/ES430: Forest Ecology

Research interests:
The Effects on Human Disturbance on Native Plant Communities, Invasive Plant Species
Plant Ecology, Tropical Ecology, Ecological Genetics

Degree information:
Ph.D. – Cornell University, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
M.S. – University of Oregon, Biology
B.A. – University of Virginia, Biology

Recent publications:
Singleton, R., S. Gardescu, P.L. Marks, and M.A. Geber. 2001. Forest herb colonization of post-agricultural forests in central New York, USA. Journal of Ecology, 89:325-338

On Teaching:
As a college student, I decided to become a scientist after working on a research question that no one had answered.  I had discovered my love of science –  the process of trying to uncover and understand patterns in nature.  As a science teacher, I include student research in all of the classes that I teach.  Whenever possible, I take advantage of the 1,000+ acres of natural areas on the Franklin Pierce University campus where students can discover patterns in the natural world and try to explain them.  Some of the most exciting moments in this process happen when students reach the limits of current knowledge.  At that point, I try to help students figure out how research can be used to increase our understanding of the natural world and ultimately to solve the environmental problems that humans currently face.

Office location: Marcucella Hall – MH 207
Office phone: (603)-899-4331
E-mail: singler@franklinpierce.edu