KELCIE L. CHIQUILLO, PH.D.
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Molecular Ecology

I am interested in uncovering the link between climate change and the mechanisms that drive invasion success to the functioning of ecosystems. My research integrates field studies and cutting-edge genomic tools to understand a variety of ecological and evolutionary questions in marine and terrestrial environments to better inform management and restoration.

Ecological questions


Habitat distribution     ​how does environmental change drive habitat distribution of invasive species ?
Suitable habitat     how do invasive species alter suitable habitats for native species?
Species interactions     how do biological invasions impact local species and vice versa?
Novel microbes     what composition of novel microbes are associated with invasions? 
Linked habitats     how do anthropogenic stressors alter resilience across linked habitats?


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Currently, I work in Dr. Jose Eirin-Lopez's Environmental epigenetic lab (EELab). I have developed a project to understand how changes in local water quality (excess in nutrients) and species interactions, or the out competition of native seagrasses by an invasive seagrass, are impacting their epigenetic processes. My previous research investigated  how it got to the Caribbean and I focus on the genetic diversity and gene expression across its native and invasive range, as well as competition. Additionally, I am a co-PI on a project that investigates the use of environmental DNA to monitor the biodiversity in South Miami Florida.


Check out my international and domestic research. ​
My Research


Ph.D. dissertation: Understanding the ecological and evolutionary
dynamics of tropical seagrasses and the factors driving habitat distribution

Genetic Diversity of Halophila stipulacea in its native and invasive range- 2bRAD

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 Gene expression of Halophila stipulacea in its native and invasive range -  RNAseq

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Chiquillo et al. 2014- The secret of the mermaid’s purse: Phylogenetic affinities within the Rajidae and the evolution of a novel reproductive strategy in skate

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  • Home
  • Bio
  • Research
    • Publications
  • Civic Engagement
  • AWOCSpace
  • Contact