Rebecca MacKay

Rebecca MacKay is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Fort Valley State University's College of Arts and Sciences. Her research focuses on parasitology and behavioral ecology, particularly examining how parasites influence the behavior of aquatic invertebrates like crayfish.

Her recent work explores parasitic effects on grazing behavior in keystone species, decision-making in prey under conflicting environmental stimuli (landscapes of fear vs. safety), and context-dependent personality changes in crayfish. These studies highlight interdisciplinary intersections between parasitology, behavioral ecology, and aquatic ecosystem dynamics.