My research interests focus on understanding the evolutionary history of life by using Paleozoic echinoderms as a model group. Current projects include: (1) understanding the homologous elements of echinoderm skeletons to better understand evolutionary relationships; (2) determining the phylogenetic relationships of major groups of echinoderms; (3) understanding rates of character evolution of certain morphological traits to quantify paleoecological and paleoclimatological trends involving sedimentological changes; and (4) finding new localities of echinoderm fossils in under sampled geographic areas in order to better understand the diversity of life in the Paleozoic.