Kathryn G. TurnerView profile
Associate Professor
Dr. Kathryn G. Turner is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Idaho State University, where she leads the Turner Lab focused on Ecological Genomics & Invasion Biology. Her research investigates plant ecological genetics, particularly rapid adaptation to novel environments and the evolution of ecologically important traits. She combines experimental, genomic, ancient DNA, and geo-referenced distribution data to explore ecological-evolutionary theories explaining successful range expansion in anthropogenic contexts. Dr. Turner's educational background includes: Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia (2015) B.S. and B.A. from the University of Texas (2005) Her research program centers on the ecological interactions and evolutionary feedback between humans and plants. She investigates rapid adaptation to novel environments, testing ecological-evolutionary theories that explain successful range expansion. Her work combines experimental, genomic, and distribution data to understand plant responses to environmental change, with significant implications for invasive species management and conservation biology. Dr. Turner teaches courses including BIOL 1100 Concepts of Biology ('Plants and People'), BIOL 4406/5506/L Plant Diversity and Evolution, and BIOL 4417/5517 Organic Evolution. An analysis of Dr. Turner's publication record reveals a strong and growing focus on genomic approaches to understanding invasion biology. Her recent work examines how climate, soil, and genomic factors influence invasive plant species like cheatgrass and sagebrush, with increasing incorporation of microbial community analysis and phyllosphere ecology. She has made significant contributions to understanding local adaptation, phenotypic plasticity, and genetic homogenization in invasive plant populations. Dr. Turner actively mentors students at all levels through the NSF EPSCoR GEM3 research program and her Vertically Integrated Project course. She emphasizes compensating undergraduate researchers through credit hours, internship programs, or grant funds, recognizing the importance of research experience for STEM career development. Her lab has produced successful graduates who now work with agencies including the US Fish & Wildlife Service and US Forest Service. The Turner Lab conducts research at the ISU Barton Road Ecological Research Area and maintains an inclusive environment committed to collaboration, open communication, and trust. Current projects include investigating population structure in invasive blue mustard, studying competition between native sagebrush and invasive cheatgrass, and developing genetic markers for big sagebrush. Dr. Turner encourages prospective graduate students, particularly those with NSF GRFP Honorable Mentions, to contact her about research opportunities.
