Nicole Phillips

Dr. Nicole Phillips is an Associate Professor at the University of Southern Mississippi, specializing in molecular approaches to conserve aquatic species. Her work focuses on sharks, rays, and marine/freshwater biodiversity using tools like environmental DNA (eDNA), genetic monitoring, and wildlife forensics. She earned a PhD (2012) and BS (2006) in Biology from Murdoch University. Research highlights include sawfish conservation, eDNA applications for species detection, and historical specimen analysis.

Key research areas include

• Conservation genetics of threatened species
• eDNA for habitat and population monitoring
• Wildlife trade forensics

Recent publications emphasize eDNA advancements, sawfish population dynamics, and interdisciplinary methods to bridge historical and modern conservation data. Her work addresses both ecological and applied challenges in marine and freshwater systems.