Kasey Fowler-Finn, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Biology
Courses Taught
Evolutionary Biology, Advanced Evolution (graduate course), Sex, Evolution and Behavior (undergraduate and graduate level)
Education
Ph.D., University of Nebraska
Research Interests
Interactions between genetic and environmental variation in shaping phenotypes. The causes and consequences of phenotypic plasticity (i.e. environment-dependent expression). The role of plasticity in adaptation to environmental change. Major questions center on ecology and mating behavior, social environment and behavior, and predator-prey interactions in insects and arachnids. Visit for more information.
Labs and Facilities
The Fowler-Finn lab utilizes a range of experimental techniques, including field work at Reis Biology Station and Tyson Research Center, quantitative genetics breeding designs to estimate genetic parameters of traits conducted in SLU’s Research Greenhouse, laser vibrometry and accelerometers to eavesdrop on vibrational insect signals, high speed videography, and more. The Fowler-Finn lab has broad interests in supporting diversity, inclusion and equity in STEM and encourages undergraduates, graduates, and postdoctoral researchers from diverse backgrounds who are interested in the lab to contact Fowler-Finn.
Publications and Media Placements
Fowler-Finn, K.D., *Kilmer, J.T., **Cruz, D., & RodrÃguez, R.L. 2018. Female mate choice of male signals is unlikely to promote ecological adaptation in Enchenopa treehoppers (Hemiptera: Membracidae). Ecology and Evolution. ECE33817. DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3817
Fowler-Finn, K.D. & Rodriguez, R.L. 2016. The causes of variation in the presence of genetic covariance between sexual traits and preferences. Biological Reviews. 91(2): 498-510. DOI: 10.1111/brv.12182
Fowler-Finn, K.D. & Rodriguez, R.L. 2012. Experience-mediated plasticity in mate preference functions: mating assurance in a variable environment. Evolution. 66: 459-468.
Visit Dr. Fowler-Finn’s google scholar page for a full publication list:
Media coverage: