Jenna Ekwealor

Jenna Ekwealor is an Assistant Professor at San Francisco State University, leading the Moss Eco-Evo-Physio (MEEP) Lab. Her research integrates plant physiology, phylogenetics, and evolutionary genetics to study stress tolerance, sexual system diversity, and adaptation to extreme environments in mosses, particularly Syntrichia species in dryland biocrusts.

Research Focus: The MEEP Lab investigates how Syntrichia mosses tolerate desiccation, adapt to harsh desert conditions, and contribute to biocrust ecosystems. Their work highlights evolutionary trajectories and ecological resilience in extreme environments.

Mentoring: Dr. Ekwealor prioritizes cultivating curiosity and individual scientific interests among students, fostering a supportive environment for diverse perspectives. The lab actively recruits Master’s students for Fall 2025.

Labs/Teams: The Ekwealor Lab (MEEP Lab) is based at SFSU, focusing on interdisciplinary plant ecology and evolutionary biology. Their work bridges basic research with applications for climate resilience and ecological conservation.