My research encompasses basic studies of the neuroendocrine system and the potential of endocrine disrupting chemicals to regulate reproduction.

Given the sensitivity of differentiation and reproduction to the hormonal environment, exposure to steroid hormones (or their mimics) may cause developmental, reproductive, and, population disruption. Endocrine disrupting chemicals include products used and produced throughout the world in manufacturing, agriculture, combustion and daily domestic life. The relationship between exposure, changes in endocrine function, and reproductive success can be complex to define, but is critical to understand the impact of these chemicals on wildlife.

Our current focus is pipefishes of the teleost family Syngnathidae. In these species, females produce eggs in a specialized ovary and males fertilize and incubate the eggs in a vascularized placenta-like brood pouch. We are beginning to explore the reproductive physiology of pipefish using both an environmental and comparative approach.