Rachel Wood

Dr. Rachel Wood is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Brigham Young University's College of Life Sciences. She specializes in ecosystem ecology with a focus on biogeochemistry and wetland systems. Her research investigates human disturbance impacts on microbial communities and ecosystem functions in aquatic/terrestrial environments, particularly regarding Phragmites invasion dynamics.

Education:

• B.S. in Environmental Science, Brigham Young University (2012)
• M.S. in Environmental Science, Brigham Young University (2013)
• Ph.D. in Ecology, Utah State University (2021)

Research Focus: Her work examines linkages between environmental perturbations, microbial gene expression, and ecosystem processes. Primary interests include wetland biogeochemistry, invasive species management, limnology, and water quality assessment. Current projects analyze ecological consequences of Phragmites control measures.

Teaching Areas:

• Ecology
• Limnology
• Wetland Ecology
• Biogeochemistry

Professional History: Managed BYU's Environmental Analytical Laboratory (2012-2021) before transitioning to faculty.