Ornithology

What are the best strategies for avian conservation in a changing environment?

Urban Ecology

How do sensory pollutants and anthropogenic stressors affect wildlife?

Endocrinology

What are the mechanistic, neuro-endocrine pathways, and how are they affected by stress?

Public Science

How do we make natural science more understandable, accessible, and inclusive?

Research Focus

What is the overall vision for The Burgess Lab?

The vision for my lab is to advance knowledge in ornithology and urban ecology - both on an academic level through novel research and on an educational level through public understanding and involvement. I also envision creating a more equitable and inclusive space in the natural sciences by practicing inclusive teaching principles, providing opportunities for minority advancement in the field, and welcoming lab members with non-traditional backgrounds.
What is your style of advising?

I consider myself to have a “developmental” advising style, where my goal is to treat advisees as collaborators in research and prepare them as future leaders in the field. I aim to serve as a facilitator of learning and discovery, rather than just directing the student in what to do. I will help my advisees develop and refine a vision of their future career and assist them in meeting those goals. Additionally, I will try my best to balance this approach with clear communication and constructive guidance so as not to leave the advisee lost or confused.
How will you advocate for your advisees at MS State?

As a recent graduate student, I empathize with struggles of navigating an advanced degree while maintaining a healthy work-life balance and financing on a graduate student salary. I will advocate for my advisees by ensuring they are receiving fair opportunities in education, research, and networking (and will work to create these opportunities for them where disparities may exist). I also recognize the importance of mental health and self-care and will help my advisees create and manage a personalized graduate plan that allows them to complete their degree requirements in a timely manner while minimizing the stress of the program. Financially, I will not be accepting graduate students to the program unless I am able to fully fund their position. I will also seek out additional grants and resources that can help cover annual student fees and the cost of conference travel.
Are there opportunities for undergraduates in The Burgess Lab?

Yes! There are many opportunities to volunteer with me and my lab members in data management, public science, and hands-on field and laboratory experience. I am always looking for undergraduate volunteers to aid with animal husbandry for the zebra finches at MSU's Avian Science Center.
What qualifications do I need to join The Burgess Lab?

Graduates: A Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Zoology, Human Dimensions of Natural Resources, or a related field Experience or high interest in ornithology, urban ecology, endocrinology, and/or public science Ability to work in GIS, Program R, or other data science programming language Undergraduates: High interest in ornithology, urban ecology, endocrinology, and/or public science No previous experience or class prerequisites required Everyone: Effective communication skills Ability to work independently and with a team Passion for wildlife research and willingness to learn!
Can International Students apply for graduate positions?

Yes! All current positions are open for international students to apply. Please visit Mississippi State's International Services Office for additional application and documentation requirements.
Besides graduate degree program requirements, are there any other requirements or responsibilities?

While completing your research program is your highest priority, I expect (and will help facilitate) participation in academic conferences and career networking events. I also strongly encourage all graduates to participate in science communication or public science opportunities when possible.

Current Lab Members

MS Graduate Research Assistant

Tabbytha Spyrison

Tabbytha Spyrison was born in Chicago and grew up close by Roger's Park, in Evanston, IL. She graduated from Warren Wilson College in December 2022, with a B.S. in biology and a B.A. in creative writing. Her research interests include passerine birds and how they adapt to our changing world. She loves to read, write and run in her free time and her favorite bird is the Carolina Chickadee.

MS Graduate Research Assistant

Allia Grande

Growing up in Puerto Rico and driven by a deep curiosity about the environment, I earned my B.S. in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez and am currently pursuing a master’s degree in Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture at Mississippi State University, where I proudly serve as a graduate assistant. My research focuses on how urbanization impacts bird communities in southeastern campuses, a vital area of study as we navigate the challenges of conserving species in increasingly urbanized environments. My time as a wildlife technician with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources sparked my passion for conservation; I worked on treating invasive species, surveying gopher tortoises, habitat restoration projects and conducting prescribed burns, these experiences deepened my commitment to protecting our natural resources. In my free time, I enjoy bird banding, going to concerts, hanging out with friends, and taking walks—whether at the beach or in the forest—always seeking to connect with both nature and community.

Join the Burgess Lab!

Interested in working with me? Check out these opportunities and apply!

All current graduate positions have been filled. More opportunities coming soon :)