معرفی
Sushma Reddy is an Associate Professor and Breckenridge Chair of Ornithology at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, where she serves as Curator of Birds at the Bell Museum of Natural History. She is affiliated with the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, as well as the Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior and Conservation Sciences graduate programs.
Education
- Ph.D., Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (2005), Columbia University
- M.Phil. (2003), Columbia University
- Certificate in Environmental Policy (2002), Columbia University
- M.A. (1999), Columbia University
- B.A. in Environmental Science (1996), Barnard College
Research Focus
Dr. Reddy investigates the evolutionary history of birds through integrative approaches combining genetic, phenotypic, and geographic data. Her work addresses fundamental questions in avian systematics, including species limits, phylogenetic relationships, and the deep structure of the avian tree of life. She also explores phenotypic evolution, diversification patterns, and biogeography, with particular emphasis on Old World tropical forests and biodiversity conservation.
Scientific Awards
- American Ornithological Society Fellow (2018)
- Sujack Family Award for Faculty Research Excellence (2017), Loyola University Chicago
Recent Publications
Dr. Reddy's research in 2017–2018 focused on resolving avian phylogenetic conflicts, uncovering hidden diversity in Madagascar's forest birds, and clarifying the evolutionary status of endangered species like the Forest Owlet. Her work combines molecular phylogenetics, biogeographic analysis, and taxonomic revision across diverse avian lineages.
Lab Affiliations
She leads the Reddy Lab, which collaborates with institutions including the Field Museum of Natural History. Her lab integrates phylogenetics, molecular evolution, and conservation biology to study avian diversification.
