معرفی
James Smith is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Boise State University's College of Arts and Sciences, where he has served since 1992. He holds dual roles as Director of the Snake River Plains Herbarium (a 50,000-specimen research collection) and PhD EEB Graduate Program Coordinator. His affiliations include collaborations with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, College of Idaho, and Universidad Nacional de Colombia.
Smith's research centers on plant systematics and phylogenetics, with emphasis on:
- Resolving taxonomic complexities in Apiaceae (Lomatium, Cymopterus) using next-gen sequencing and morphology
- Evolution of floral symmetry and speciation mechanisms in Gesneriaceae (Columnea)
- Global phylogenetics of Piperaceae, focusing on neotropical diversification
His 15 most recent publications (2015–2019) reveal a focus on:
- Species delimitation in North American Apiaceae through integrative taxonomy
- Phylogenomic studies of Gesneriaceae hybridization and speciation
- Angiosperm evolution and fossil calibration controversies
Smith mentors graduate students like Michael Ottenlips and co-leads a 2019 NSF grant exploring Apiaceae phylogeny. He oversees herbarium operations that facilitate regional biodiversity research and educational forays.
