Marcella Kelly

Marcella Kelly is a Professor and Associate Department Head for Graduate Affairs in the Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). She holds a B.S. (1991) and Ph.D. (2000) from the University of California, Davis. Her research focuses on carnivore ecology, population modeling, and conservation, utilizing techniques such as camera trapping, genetic sampling, and GPS collaring. Key projects include jaguar monitoring in Belize, coyote ecology in the Appalachians, and black bear physiology studies at the Black Bear Research Center. She leads the WHAPA Lab, advancing studies on felids, conservation physiology, and human-wildlife interactions. Her work spans global ecosystems, from Madagascar to Sumatra, addressing threats like habitat fragmentation and invasive species. Collaborations with agencies and institutions enhance applied conservation outcomes.