Idelle Cooper

Idelle Cooper is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Grinnell College. Her research program bridges evolutionary biology and ecology, focusing on phenotypic variation in damselfly species. She investigates the interplay between selection pressures, sexual dimorphism, and speciation in two damselfly genera: Megalagrion (Hawaiian damselflies) and Calopteryx (Jewelwing damselflies of North America). Cooper's work uniquely integrates scientific inquiry with visual art, exploring how artistic perspectives enhance biological research.

• Academic Affiliation: Grinnell College, Department of Biology
• Research Themes: Evolutionary ecology, phenotypic variation, damselfly coloration and behavior

Her research demonstrates how ecological factors drive color variation and sexual dimorphism, particularly in island populations. Publications span topics from sexual conflict in damselflies to biogeographic patterns in Hawaiian insects. Cooper's interdisciplinary approach connects empirical studies with theoretical modeling and artistic interpretation, creating a holistic framework for understanding evolutionary processes.

Cooper teaches foundational courses like BIO 150 - Biological Inquiry and advanced topics such as BIO 373 - Mechanisms of Evolution. She holds a Ph.D. in Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior from Indiana University-Bloomington and earned dual honors in Biology and Art from Grinnell College.