I am generally interested in the influence of phytochemicals on plant-pollinator dynamics.

Plants produce a myriad of secondary chemicals to, among many functions, defend themselves from antagonists and attract mutualists. My current research focuses on the variation in floral chemicals produced by different varieties of cultivated basil (Ocimum basilicum) and the ecological consequences of such chemical variation. Some of these chemicals are potentially medicinal against Crithidia bombi, a trypanosome parasite of the common eastern bumble bee (Bombus impatiens). I am investigating whether consumption of these compounds improves Crithidia infection in B. impatiens. I am also looking into whether Crithidia infection influences the foraging behavior of B. impatiens, affecting their visitation to favor varieties of basil that produce higher concentrations of medicinal compounds. Such parasite-induced preferences may result in fitness benefits for  plants that produce medicinal compounds.