Dr. Nicholas W. Blay
Dr. Nicholas W. Blay
Ph.D., Oklahoma State University
M.S., University of Wisconsin
B.A., Simpson College
I consider myself a broadly trained behavioral ecologist. My doctoral research primarily focused on the intersection of parental care and thermal biology. More specifically, I investigated in the influence of incubation temperature on behavior, morphology, and performance in wolf spiders. Recently, my interests have shifted from experimental to non-experimental research, with a focus on exploring, documenting, and teaching about natural and life history of organisms that are often overlooked or viewed as insignificant to promote an understanding of the importance of maintaining biodiversity.
Teaching
I have had the opportunity to teach several different courses across various biological disciplines including, herpetology, environmental policy, human anatomy, and introductory biology. Regardless of the course, I utilize a variety of instructional techniques to create an environment that promotes an understanding of the subject matter, enhances competence and confidence in the field, and relates course material to the world outside the classroom.
Shining Armor Award; Wartburg College (2021, 2022)
Adjunct Excellence in Education Award; Northern Oklahoma CC (2017)
Finalist- GPSGA Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant; Oklahoma State Univ. (2017)
Hiram Doty Research Award in Biology and Environmental Sciences; Simpson College (2008)