Dylan Wallace Maag

Dylan Wallace Maag is an Assistant Professor of Biology and Curator of the Herpetology Collection at West Texas A&M University since August 2024. He earned his B.S. in Fisheries and Wildlife (Conservation Biology) from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2014), M.S. in Biology from Missouri State University (2017), and Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology from San Diego State University & UC Riverside (2023).

• Current Roles:
  • Assistant Professor of Biology
  • Curator of Herpetology Collection, Biodiversity Museum
• Past Roles:
  • Adjunct Instructor & Postdoctoral Researcher, SDSU (2023–2024)

Dr. Maag's research focuses on the behavioral and evolutionary ecology of vertebrates, particularly herpetofauna (reptiles, amphibians) and small mammals. Key areas include:

• Hybridization dynamics in rattlesnake populations
• Predator-prey interactions in pitvipers
• Spatial ecology and microhabitat selection
• Animal temperament and behavioral syndromes

His work combines field studies with advanced ecological methodologies. Dr. Maag has published 10 peer-reviewed articles and presented at over a dozen conferences.

Scientific Awards & Collaborations:

• Outstanding Lecturer Award, SDSU (2024)
• CORE Fellowship (2022)
• Collaborations with institutions like UC Riverside, Missouri State University, and Purdue University Fort Wayne

Dr. Maag mentors undergraduate researchers (40+ mentored), many of whom are co-authors on his publications. He teaches Herpetology, Biometry, and General Ecology, and actively participates in public outreach with live animals to promote herpetofauna conservation.