My time at the Lyon Center has been instrumental in shaping both my academic and career goals. I’ve gained hands-on experience in wildlife research and discovered just how much I enjoy tackling real conservation challenges.
Grace James Laboratory Manager, Lyon Center for Gamebird Research
- Alum
- Staff
Lyon Center for Gamebird Research
Quail
Grace James earned her master's in biological sciences with an emphasis on wildlife biology and conservation from East Texas A&M in 2025. Now serving as lab manager for the university's Lyon Center for Gamebird Research, she oversees daily research operations, trains undergraduate technicians, and contributes to ongoing studies on Northern Bobwhite quail.
Her research primarily investigates the impacts of pharmaceuticals and environmental stressors on gamebird reproduction, development, and population sustainability. She's passionate about using science to guide conservation efforts and ensure the long-term health and sustainability of gamebird populations. Some of her most exciting career moments are when she's able to contribute meaningful data that can influence real-world habitat management and support species recovery efforts.
A Conversation with Grace
What sparked your interest in gamebirds, wildlife research or conservation?
I have always been passionate about wildlife and conservation. Choosing gamebird research has provided the opportunity to fully engage in my passion for this type of work while expanding my knowledge on this topic and how it applies to broader issues.
IF YOU COULD SPEND A DAY STUDYING ANY GAMEBIRD IN THE WORLD, WHICH WOULD YOU CHOOSE, WHERE WOULD IT BE, AND WHY?
Easy! I would choose Northern Bobwhite quail. I have really enjoyed learning about the species throughout my graduate studies, and it is always an incredible experience to connect what we study in the lab to what is happening out in the wild!
How has your time with the Lyon Center influenced your academic or career path?
My time at the Lyon Center has been instrumental in shaping both my academic and career goals. I've gained hands-on experience in wildlife research and discovered just how much I enjoy tackling real conservation challenges.
Much of our work focuses on efforts like habitat restoration, population health, and understanding the impact of environmental stressors. People are often surprised to learn how closely our research connects to broader issues such as ecosystem balance, and even agriculture! Being surrounded by passionate researchers and contributing to meaningful projects has truly strengthened my commitment to pursuing a career in research and academia.
Educational Background
- M.S., Biological Sciences, East Texas A&M University, 2025
- B.S., Biology, Texas A&M University-Texarkana, 2023
selected Publications and Presentations
Reproductive Impacts of Fenbendazole on Northern Bobwhite Quail, Annual Research Symposium, East Texas A&M University, Spring 2025
Transgenerational Effects of Heat Stress on Northern Bobwhite Quail, Annual Research Symposium, East Texas A&M University, Spring 2024