Bio

I am a behavioral ecologist focused on unraveling the impacts of global change on amphibians, exploring changes in phenotypic, ecophysiological, genetic and behavioral traits. Also, I am intrigued by the evolutionary dynamics of territorial behavior and mating systems in Neotropical Poison Frogs, exploring aspects from ecological characteristics to their neurophysiological and genetic bases. Beyond research, my lifelong commitment is centered on actively contributing to the conservation and preservation of endangered amphibians. This involves fostering support for participatory science initiatives, collaborating closely with local communities in Colombia to ensure the sustainability and well-being of these threatened species. Fieldwork is a personal passion, providing me with the unique opportunity to observe and study the natural history of herps.

Honors & Awards

  • Orquídeas Program: Mujeres en la Ciencia, Agentes de Paz, Ministerio Nacional de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación-MinCiencias, Colombia (Oct-2023)
  • For Women In Science-2022, L'Oréal Colombia, Unesco, Minciencias and Icetex. (Dec-2022)

Stanford Advisors

Contact

  • Academic
    milebeta@stanford.edu
    University - Scholar Department: Biology Position: Postdoctoral Scholar

Additional Info

Links

Research Interests

  • Diversity and Identity
  • Environmental Education
  • Science Education

Current Research and Scholarly Interests

My research in the O'Connell lab focuses on studying the neural mechanisms regulating begging behavior in poison frog tadpoles and understanding the phenotypic diversification of the Diablito poison frog (Oophaga sylvatica) from a genetic and ecological approach.

Lab Affiliations