Chris Feldman

Chris Feldman is a Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Nevada, Reno, where he also serves as Curator of Vertebrates and Associate Museum Director for the Museum of Natural History. His research integrates evolutionary biology, ecology, and conservation biology with a focus on reptiles and amphibians.

• Education: Ph.D. in Biology (Utah State University, 2008), M.A. in Ecology and Systematic Biology (San Francisco State University, 2000), and B.A. in Integrative Biology (University of California, Berkeley, 1996).

Research interests include comparative phylogeography, phylogenetics, population genetics, and coevolution in vertebrates, particularly garter snakes and newts. His work combines field studies with molecular genetics to explore adaptive potential, speciation, and biogeographic patterns.

Recent publications highlight his contributions to understanding molecular evolution in toxin-resistant proteins, speciation mechanisms, and shell kinesis in turtles. Collaborative projects span ecological theory (e.g., phylogenetic cascades) and conservation genetics.

Contact: ophis@unr.edu | (775) 784-4053