Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program:
Education, Research and Technical Assistance for Managing Our Natural Resources

Michael received a B.S. in Wildlife Biology from the University of Tennessee-Martin in 2003 and a M.S. in Forestry from Mississippi State University in 2006. Michael then moved to Utah to pursue a Ph.D. in Wildlife Biology at Utah State University where his research focused on the ecology and management of greater sage-grouse. After completing his Ph.D. in 2010, Michael briefly worked as a post-doctoral researcher at Utah State University. He then spent 2.5 years as a post-doctoral researcher with the USGS Coop Unit at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In late 2014, Michael returned to Utah State University to work in the lab of Dr. Tom Edwards. Michael's research interests are centered on applying modern statistical methods to inform conservation efforts for species and communities threatened by natural and anthropogenic change. When not working, Michael enjoys hiking, rock climbing, and cycling.. Michael's research interests are centered on applying modern statistical methods to inform conservation efforts for species and communities threatened by natural and anthropogenic change.