Amberleigh Henschen

Amberleigh Henschen is an Assistant Professor in Biological Sciences at Eastern Illinois University. Her research program investigates ecoimmunology and evolutionary adaptations in wildlife disease systems, particularly in avian species.

Her work examines immune gene evolution across vertebrates, disease tolerance mechanisms in songbirds, and molecular signaling in sexually selected traits. Current projects explore host-pathogen coevolution, rapid adaptation to novel pathogens, and ecological drivers of disease dynamics.

Dr. Henschen's publications demonstrate a consistent focus on understanding how immune systems evolve under selective pressures from pathogens and environmental challenges. Her research combines molecular techniques with ecological fieldwork to address fundamental questions in disease ecology.