Alec Sheets

Alec is a fourth year PhD student studying evolutionary biology at Ohio State University. Specifically, his research focuses on using phylogenetic comparative methods to study macroevolutionary adaptation, including the ecological role of venom in red-toothed shrews (sub-family: Soricinae). He is especially interested in the application of novel statistical and computational methods to current problems in evolutionary biology.  

Growing up on the border of Appalachia and a large metropolitan area Alec was always aware of the damaging effects of policy that leaves behind its people. I think many of the problems encountered there are manifestations of economic inefficiencies that are not always reflective of the present state of technology. Alec is interested in leveraging his training as a comparative biologist to develop a mechanistic understanding of these inefficiencies and their potential solutions. 

In addition to his research, Alec runs a hobby farm in Perry County, Ohio. There he enjoys beekeeping, experimenting with principles of sustainable agriculture and exploring the countryside with his four rescue dogs. 

As an Ohio Public Interest Fellow, Alec will be working with the Division of Surface Water for the summer.