Welcome to the Boria lab! I am an Assistant Professor in the department of Biology at San Francisco State University.  

​We study the ecology, evolution, and effects of climate change on small mammals. Overall, I want to uncover the patterns and processes that affect the distribution of species. Specifically, I study how populations have responded to past climate change and how the historical distributions and past areas of climate refugia for small mammals will influence future climate change responses. At SFSU, we will also work on how urbanization is affecting the evolution of small mammals in the San Francisco Bay Area.

My research utilizes an interdisciplinary approach to understand how historical events have shaped the current distribution of genetic diversity within mammal species and on the impacts of future warming, a topic of societal importance given the rates of global change we are experiencing today. My research uses a diverse set of tools, including bioinformatics, ecological niche modeling, phylogenetics, spatial mapping, field and museum sampling, and wet lab experience (i.e., DNA extraction and library preparation; both modern and ancient DNA).

I also have a passion for teaching, with experience in applying evidence-based approaches to support student learning in the classroom and involving students in the research process. I have also demonstrated a strong commitment to creating inclusive and equitable classes. ​