In celebration of Women's History Month, we are highlighting female Warnell alumni who have made significant accomplishments in areas of research. Today, meet Lisa Muller (PhD ’95), a professor and assistant department head at the University of Tennessee. What are the main threads of your research? Ecology and management of mammals; wildlife physiology Tell us about a paper or research project you’re particularly proud of. My 2018 paper, "Genetic structure in elk persists after reintroduction in Tennessee and North Carolina," published in the Journal of Wildlife Management, was exciting because this work made me think differently and opened up many more questions. How do you view your contributions to the field? My position for the last 20+ years has been research and teaching. I hope I have convinced students that life is a journey and learning must take place at every step of the way. Natural resource management occurs in a rapidly changing world and students must learn how to deal with current issues as well as critically evaluate options for future needs. It is not enough for students to understand the basic principles without being able to adapt to environmental and social conditions that will change. I try to use the same philosophy for research questions. I am continually learning and trying to adjust to new ideas and ways of thinking about research design and tools for answering questions. What advice do you have for young women now entering college who might follow this path? I was the first female graduate student to graduate from Auburn University in Wildlife Science. I was also the first female faculty hired in the department of forestry, wildlife and fisheries at the University of Tennessee. I see change happening. Wildlife professionals can’t solve today’s challenges by using the same approach as was done years ago. The field is more inclusive now and everyone’s talents and passions are needed. I will say my time at Warnell was wonderful and I always felt accepted by faculty and my fellow graduate students. My best advice is to never doubt your worth and embrace the journey forward.
