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Hello, I'm Molly!
I'm broadly interested in evolutionary biology, ecological immunology, and host-pathogen co-evolutionary processes.
Research News
New manuscript shows adaptive genetic change(s) was necessary for
Mycoplasma gallisepticum to jumpfrom poultry into
house finches (Haemorhous mexicanus)!
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New review manuscript on Immunoglobulin A as an indicator
animal welfare is out now!
Molly Staley
PhD, Biological Sciences, Auburn University
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Current Position:
Biology Instructor, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL
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Email:
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CURRENT PROJECTS
Mycoplasma gallisepticum-infected house finch. Photo credit: Dr. Geoff Hill.
Immunoglobulin A as a physiological indicator of animal welfare
In many vertebrate species, immunoglobulin A (IgA) serves a crucial role in defense against microorganisms and maintaining homeostasis at mucosal surfaces. Additionally, mucosal IgA levels can be influenced by physiological stress responses and the immune system as well as positive, engaging experiences. A major focus of my postdoctoral research, therefore, has been to critically evaluate the potential to apply IgA in animal welfare contexts. Along these lines, we are currently validating IgA as a welfare indicator for chimpanzees (Pan troglogytes) in managed care settings. Click on the link below to read our recent review in Hormones and Behavior!
Monitoring dolphin welfare
I am currently developing methods for conducting non-invasive, physiological assessments of common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) welfare. However, this is just one of many things being done to assess the welfare of bottlenose dolphins and other cetaceans in managed care settings. For more information, check out recent blogs from colleagues regarding the unique tools and technologies being implemented to monitor dolphin welfare.
Understanding disease emergence events using natural host-pathogen systems
Recent history has witnessed dramatic increases in emerging infectious diseases, particularly those arising from pathogens jumping into novel host species. Given the difficulty of disentangling whether observed pathogen changes were necessary for host shifting or represent subsequent specialization to the novel host, the specific factors contributing to disease emergence often remain uncharacterized. For my dissertation research, I studied the natural host shift of the bacterial pathogen Mycoplasma gallisepticum from poultry into wild house finches (Haemorhous mexicanus). This host shift event and subsequent epizootic was unusually well-characterized due to the visible conjunctivitis symptoms associated with infection and citizen science-based monitoring of disease spread. Beyond this work, I am involved multiple collaborative research projects examining the co-evolutionary dynamics of house finches and M. gallisepticum.
TEACHING RESOURCES
TEACHING STATEMENT
Among the most difficult but also most rewarding experiences during my undergraduate education were times when mentors challenged me to set aside the textbook and explore my own scientific curiosities. While such an open-ended, inquiry-based approach seemed daunting at first, I soon grew to understand and appreciate how this helped me connect what I was learning in the classroom to scientific questions that interested me. By taking this approach, my professors used their classroom to create opportunities for me to both explore different career tracts and hone essential scientific skills. Since then, these lessons have come to be the foundation for how I approach my role as a teacher and mentor.
EXPERIENCE
I have diverse experience teaching at undergraduate level, both at the introductory level and more advanced courses including Immunology, Ornithology, and Recombinant DNA and Gene Expression Laboratories. I have additionally guest lectured for Ornithology and Genetics courses and welcome additional opportunities related to my areas of expertise. Outside the classroom, I facilitate learning by doing experiences for individuals of all experience levels, ranging from high school students to work colleagues.
SAMPLE TEACHING MATERIALS
One of the major challenges faced when teaching large groups of students is the diversity of learning styles. To facilitate student understanding and give those students who desire extra practice with the material, I have developed supplemental practice problems and worksheets for several laboratory courses.
CV
Publications
Selected Publications
Staley, M, MG Conners, K Hall, and LJ Miller. In press. Linking stress and immunity: Immunoglobulin A as a non-invasive physiological biomarker in animal welfare studies. Hormones and Behavior.
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Staley, M, GE Hill, CC Josefson, JW Armbruster, and C Bonneaud. 2018. Bacterial pathogen emergence requires more than direct contact with a novel passerine host. Infection and Immunity 86: e00863-17.
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Staley, M, and C Bonneaud. 2015. Immune responses of wild birds to emerging infectious diseases. Parasite Immunology 37: 242-254.
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Staley, M, CM Vleck, and D Vleck. 2011. Plasma testosterone concentrations in adult tree swallows during the breeding season. Wilson Journal of Ornithology. 123: 608-613.
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For a complete list of publications visit the links below or download my CV!