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Professor Dr. Courtney Fitzpatrick

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Courtney Fitzpatrick is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University. Her research interests focus on how social environments shape evolutionary traits, utilizing field-based empirical methods and mathematical modeling to understand the ecological influences on trait evolution. She typically investigates reproductive and behavioral traits, exploring how these traits operate within polygynous mating systems. Her work includes studying the evolution of sexual signals in female animals and the associated ecological factors. Fitzpatrick has participated in significant collaborations, such as with the Amboseli Baboon Research Project, where she examined the ecology and evolution of exaggerated estrous swellings in female baboons. She employs mathematical models to investigate male mate choice and female ornamentation in a variety of species including primates, fishes, lizards, and crustaceans. By developing ‘proof-of-concept’ models and utilizing population genetic techniques, she aims to clarify the underlying principles of behavioral evolution and reproductive strategies.

Research Interests

Evolution Ecology Behavioral Evolution Trait Evolution Sexual Selection

Experience

Postdoctoral Fellow

— Present

National Evolutionary Synthesis Center • Durham, NC

Conducted postdoctoral research focusing on evolutionary synthesis.

Visiting Scholar

— Present

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill & Duke University • Durham, NC

Engaged in collaborative research while visiting as a scholar.

NIH Postdoctoral Fellow

— Present

Indiana University • Bloomington, IN

Worked on evolutionary biology projects as a fellow.

Research Associate

— Present

Indiana University • Bloomington, IN

Conducted research as an associate focusing on evolutionary and ecological projects.

Requirements for Texas A&M University

Doctorate Program

Requirements

GPA Requirement
Required:3
GRE General
TOEFL
Total
Required:80

Prerequisites

Baccalaureate degree Baccalaureate degree in Communication or related field preferred

Application Checklist

  • Curriculum Vita
  • Statement of Purpose (500-750 words)
  • Writing Sample (up to 10,000 words)
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • GraduateCAS Application

Specialization Notes

Department: Department of Communication and Journalism. Ph.D. program only currently admitting. GRE is test-optional.