I am interested how selection shapes phenotypic variation in functionally complex traits.  My research addresses the role of sexual selection in generating adaptive evolution, patterns of resource allocation between male and female offspring, and species formation through divergent female choice. My work combines field and laboratory experiments that employ a variety of ecological, genetic and behavioral approaches.  

Much of my work involves the long-term study of population biology in the harvester ant, Pogonomyrmex occidentalis, in western Colorado.  A major focus of this work is how local population dynamic processes (reproduction, dispersal, and competition) generate large-scale patterns.  A second emphasis is the relative importance of multiple mating for colony lifetime reproductive success.

If you would like to get in touch, I can be reached at dwiernasz@uh.edu. For people on campus trying to get in touch with me, my office is 321E, Science and Research II.