Jennifer Walker

Dr. Jennifer Walker serves as an Associate Professor at the University of Southern Mississippi, where she conducts research on aquatic mollusks and teaches core biological sciences courses at the Gulf Park campus.

Her academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. from University of Alabama (2003)
• M.S. from University of Alabama (1998)
• Dual B.S. degrees from Troy University (1994, 1995)

Specializing in Malacology and Molecular Systematics, Dr. Walker's research lab investigates estuarine bivalves—particularly Rangia cuneata—and freshwater mussel populations through histological examinations and field surveys of local waterways. Her work addresses critical gaps in aquatic ecosystem conservation and biodiversity monitoring.

She instructs undergraduate courses spanning Genetics (BSC 370), Invertebrate Zoology (BSC 408/408L), Human Parasitology (BSC 410/410L), General Ecology (BSC 440/440L), Marine Biology (BSC 445/445L), and the Senior Capstone (BSC 497).

Based in the Gulf Coast Science Building (SB 3D 209C), Dr. Walker mentors students in hands-on research while advancing field methodologies for freshwater mussel assessment, though specific grant details and student names remain unreported in available records.