Murry L. Burgess

Dr. Murry L. Burgess is an Assistant Professor at Mississippi State University (MSU), affiliated with the College of Forest Resources and Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture. He holds a B.S. from MSU and a Ph.D. from North Carolina State University. His research focuses on ornithology, urban ecology, and endocrinology, particularly examining how anthropogenic stressors like light and noise pollution impact avian health and development. He advocates for public science and field safety through initiatives like the nonprofit Field Inclusive, which supports marginalized field biologists.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture (Mississippi State University)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology (North Carolina State University)

Research Interests:
Dr. Burgess investigates urban bird communities, the effects of artificial light on avian physiology and reproduction, and the Yule-Simpson paradox in clutch size trends. He employs field and lab experiments to study nestling development under stressors like light and noise pollution, aiming to inform urban infrastructure design for avian well-being. His work bridges ecology with societal issues, such as fieldwork safety and accessibility in STEM.

Awards:

• CFR Inclusive Excellence (MSU)
• College of Forest Resources Champion of Conservation

Advising & Grants:
As Principal Investigator (PI), he leads projects on artificial light impacts, urban bird communities, and noise pollution effects. He contributes to the Flocks Project (advisory role) and the Telemetry and Avian Tracking Working Group. His book chapter Inclusive Nature highlights equity in outdoor spaces.

Labs & Teams:
The Burgess Lab focuses on avian ecology and urban environments. He co-founded Field Inclusive, Inc. to advance inclusion in field biology.