Joanna Wu

I am an ornithologist and ecologist studying the biology and conservation of female birds. My research interests are in understudied aspects of female bird biology, ecology, and how they relate to conservation. 

Currently a PhD Candidate working with Morgan Tingley at UCLA's Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, some of my projects are:

1. Studying survival differences in female and male birds.

2. Examining sex-specific habitat use by birds.

3. Identifying sex biases in scientific studies.

I am deeply committed to amplifying underrepresented voices — human and avian alike — and shedding light on the often-overlooked world of female birds. As a member of the Galbatross Project — a collective of scientists, birders, writers, and conservationists — I work alongside others dedicated to bringing female birds the recognition they deserve.

I will graduate in December 2026 and am currently looking for post-doctoral opportunities! Please reach out to me if you would like to talk more or collaborate on applying for funding!