Heather Williams

Heather Williams is a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences and Department of Environment and Sustainability at the University at Buffalo (College of Arts and Sciences). Her research focuses on the behavioral and spatial ecology of migratory birds, particularly purple martins and common cuckoos, with a strong emphasis on integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning tools into ecological studies. She also champions undergraduate experiential learning through innovative field methodologies and conservation interventions.

Education:

• PhD, Department of Environment and Sustainability, University at Buffalo (Dissertation: From the microbiome to macroecology - three levels of purple martin ecology)
• MS, Ecology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
• BS (Honors), Ecology, Durham University, United Kingdom

Research Interests: Dr. Williams explores avian behavior, migratory patterns, and conservation challenges. Her work combines parasitology (e.g., Bartonella in nest ectoparasites) with technological advances like deep learning for video analysis of nesting behavior. She investigates how environmental factors (temperature, habitat suitability) influence avian physiology and reproductive success.

Grants and Labs: No specific grants or lab affiliations mentioned. Her teaching includes courses on evolutionary biology, medical entomology, and plant biology.