Larisa R. G. DeSantis

Larisa R. G. DeSantis is an Associate Professor in both the Department of Biological Sciences and the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Vanderbilt University. She leads the DeSantis DREAM Lab, which conducts interdisciplinary research focused on understanding ecological and evolutionary responses to global change using modern, historic, and fossil records.

Her research integrates biological and geological sciences to study mammalian communities across spatial and temporal scales, particularly during the Cenozoic. The lab employs morphological, geochemical, and dental microwear texture analyses to decode the ecology of both extant and extinct mammals, with a focus on apex predators such as saber-toothed cats and dire wolves in North America and Australia.

The DeSantis DREAM Lab also emphasizes education and public outreach, aiming to improve scientific literacy through fossil-based programs and online resources. Inspired by the philosophy that conservation follows understanding and love, the lab actively engages with students and the public via initiatives like 'Meet a Scientist' and 'Fossil at the Fort'.

While no specific publications or awards are listed in the provided text, the research program demonstrates a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary science, combining paleontology, ecology, and climate science to inform modern conservation efforts.

Scientific Awards:

The lab is actively involved in mentoring and outreach, though formal advisees are not listed. Research is supported by interdisciplinary collaboration across biological and geological sciences, with potential implications for conservation biology and climate response modeling. The DeSantis DREAM Lab maintains a strong presence in science communication and educational programming.