Richard Clopton

Professor Richard Clopton is a faculty member in the Department of Biology at Peru State College's School of Arts and Sciences. He teaches courses in evolution, systematics, and organismal biology including Introductory Zoology, Evolution & Systematic Biology, and Entomology & Lab.

• PhD in Parasitology from University of Nebraska (1993)
• MS and BS in Entomology from University of Nebraska (1989, 1987)

His research focuses on the evolution, systematics, and biodiversity of invertebrates and their parasites, particularly examining speciation forces in hyperdiverse gregarine lineages. Supported by National Science Foundation grants, his projects have explored gregarine parasites in Nebraska Sandhills, Texas Big Thicket, Belize, and currently investigate North American cockroach-parasite distributions.

Professor Clopton integrates undergraduates as research colleagues, emphasizing hands-on scientific collaboration. Students in his lab regularly present at regional/national conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals. Visit his research website at science.peru.edu/gregarina for more information.