What Do We Do?
- Our lab investigates the behavioral and physiological performance of animals, with a focus on understanding how organisms interact with and respond to their environments. While much of our research centers on insect model systems, we also have experience working with a wide range of animals, including crustaceans, amphibians, fish, and small mammals.
- In addition to our biological research, we are committed to advancing STEM education. Our education-focused projects examine Culturally Responsive Pedagogy (CRP) interventions in higher education, with the goal of creating more inclusive, equitable, and effective learning environments.
- Students in our lab gain hands-on research experience by designing and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing behavioral and physiological data, and engaging with primary scientific literature. Students also develop skills in data analysis, scientific communication, and collaboration, and may contribute to conference presentations, manuscripts, or education-focused research projects depending on their interests.
Lab news
December 2025
Congratulations Kevin Tijerina!
Event Details
December 2025
Congratulations Kevin Tijerina!
Kevin has graduated from CSUSB! Congratulations on your accomplishment!
August 2025
The Contreras Lab Presents at the CSUSB Undergraduate Summer Research Conference
Event Details
August 2025
The Contreras Lab Presents at the CSUSB Undergraduate Summer Research Conference
CSUSB and Riverside Coomunity College students working in the Contreras lab this summer present their work at this year's CSUSB USR conferen...
July 2025
Dra. Contreras Pilots New Summer Program in Soundscape Ecology
Event Details
July 2025
Dra. Contreras Pilots New Summer Program in Soundscape Ecology
Dr. Contreras has partnered with Rockstars of Tomorrow to develop a new summer program for middle schoolers: Nature Unmuted. https://heidyco...
June 2025
Water Quality Research in Oregon!
Event Details
June 2025
Water Quality Research in Oregon!
We have partnered with Farmers Conservation Alliance (https://fcasolutions.org/) to conduct water quality research in Medford and Klamath F...
June 2025
Welcome our Riverside Community College Researchers!
Event Details
June 2025
Welcome our Riverside Community College Researchers!
Kory Anderson and Jacob Palmer will be joining the Contreras Lab this summer. Welcome!
More Events
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