David Taylor
I carry out research in several areas of Botany, including Plant Reproductive Biology, Ethnobotany, and Plant Systematics (diversity and evolution of plants). In Plant Reproductive Biology, I focus on the pollination and breeding systems of plants, with their potential for the evolution of new plant species in nature. In Ethnobotany, I focus on studying the conservation of fresh crops in the cultural cuisines of immigrant/migrant communities in the USA and elsewhere. In Plant Systematics, I focus on diversity studies in alpine areas and also in the family Rubiaceae (that famously includes members such as coffee plants and Gardenias). I have carried out my research in many different locations throughout the world, including, for example, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and Taiwan.
Students conducting this research:
- Perform outdoor work in all conditions, maintain detailed records and conduct interviews at crop markets
- Should have completed BIO 341 and 371, are detail-oriented, work well in teams and independently, and provide their own transportation
- Can participate in research in the fall and spring, for 493 credit
- Typically commit 6 hrs/wk
Fun Fact: David Taylor loves to dance East Coast Swing and Lindy Hop!
