Frances M. Hanzawa

Frances M. Hanzawa is an Associate Professor of Biology at Pomona College since 1994. She focuses on evolution and ecology, particularly plant-animal interactions, seed dispersal mechanisms, and population genetics. Her research spans multiple decades of field and experimental studies.

• Education: PhD from Northwestern University and BA from Pomona College

Her work investigates how seed and pollen dispersal affect genetic structures in plant populations, with key studies on Trillium grandiflorum and Corydalis aurea. She has secured multiple NSF grants to support undergraduate research experiences and population biology studies.

Frances's publications highlight evolutionary trade-offs in seed dispersal strategies and ecological interactions between ants and plants. Her research integrates genetic, demographic, and behavioral approaches to understand plant population dynamics.

• National Science Foundation grants (1990-94, 1996-2003)
• Pew Faculty Development Award (1990)

She teaches ecology and plant evolution courses and maintains an active research lab.