Baum Lab
Undergraduate Research
While at McKendree University I was initially unsure what field I wanted to pursue within biology. Luckily, under the guidance of Dr. Michele Schutzenhofer, I found my calling. I decided to completed an independent study with her and learning about pollinators. I pursued a project analyzing and comparing bumblebee size, between the same species, from different sites with varying burn histories. This project showed me the importance of science and increased my passion for research. I was also able to pursue and complete other projects while at McKendree and each project served to make me a better student, scientist, and presenter.
Presentations:
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Cocke, T & Schutzenhofer, M.R. “The Phenology of the Common Eastern Bumblebee, Bombus impatiens, in Recently Restored Prairies”.
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Cicci, T., Cocke, T., Meigs, B., Nash, A., Watkins, S., & Schutzenhofer, M.R. “The Science of Pollinators and Pollination: A Bearcat Beehive Project”.
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Cocke, T. “The Environmental History of United States National Parks”.
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Cocke, T. & Rapp, D. “Tyrosinase Isoenzymes: A Comparison Across Tissues of a Single Organism”.
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Cocke, T., Dale, S., Geiger, A., & Reed, D. “Can You Eat Yourself Happy? A Look Into Gut Health and the Treatment of Depression and Anxiety”.
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Cocke, T. “The Evolution of Axolotls”.
My current research for my dissertation looks to understand how road-type influences native bee species richness, abundance, and mortality in roadside habitats in the Southern Great Plains and management implications. This study will help researchers understand what native bee species are in roadside habitats in Oklahoma and what road type characteristics may be impacting their site selection as well as survival. I will be completing my dissertation in May 2023.