David Hembry

David Hembry is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at James Madison University, joining in 2024. He holds a PhD in Environmental Science, Policy, and Management from UC Berkeley (2012) and a BA in Biology from Harvard University (2003). His research focuses on the evolution and ecology of species interactions, particularly mutualistic and parasitic associations between leafflower plants (Phyllanthaceae) and leafflower moths (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae: Epicephala). His work spans tropical and temperate regions, including active field projects in Texas, Puerto Rico, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. He is supported by NSF and JMU funding, and his lab emphasizes phylogenetic approaches, species interaction networks, and coevolutionary dynamics.

Education:

• PhD, Environmental Science, UC Berkeley, 2012
• BA, Biology, Harvard University, 2003

Research Interests:

Dr. Hembry investigates how ecological interactions drive evolutionary processes and biodiversity. His lab’s model system explores the coevolutionary history of leafflower plants and their specialist moths, addressing questions about mutualism stability, host shifts, and biogeographic patterns. Key themes include:

• Coevolutionary mechanisms shaping species diversification
• Biogeographic dynamics of island ecosystems
• Phylogenetic methods to disentangle ecological interaction histories

Recent Research Trends:

His publications highlight coevolutionary dynamics, the macroevolutionary impacts of species interactions, and the role of ecological networks in biodiversity maintenance. Recent work emphasizes cryptic pollinator systems and the evolutionary consequences of mutualism-parasitism transitions.

Grants & Funding:

• NSF grants supporting fieldwork in the Pacific Islands and Neotropics
• JMU internal funding for lab establishment and student training

Labs & Collaborations:

The Hembry Lab collaborates with researchers globally on island biogeography, phylogenetics, and coevolution. Key partners include James Ackerman, Ulrich Mueller, and Elvia Meléndez-Ackerman. The lab currently offers MS positions in evolutionary ecology and biogeography.