About
ABMSS 2026
Join us for the Animal Behavior Meets Social Science Symposium (ABMSS), available in person or via Zoom, where we explore animal behavior and its real-world applications. This event highlights the role of zoos in conservation and demonstrates how behavioral science informs animal welfare, education, and research.
We are honored to welcome Michele Johnson, Ph.D., Professor of Biology at Trinity University, as our keynote speaker. Dr. Johnson is an evolutionary biologist whose research examines how ecological factors and physiological mechanisms shape social behavior, with a focus on Caribbean anole lizards. Using field observations, laboratory experiments, and molecular and neuroendocrine approaches, her work provides valuable insights into the evolution of behavior. She is also deeply committed to mentoring students, supporting women in science, and advancing science education through community outreach.
The program will also feature a Gladys Porter Zoo panel, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how behavioral research is applied in a modern zoo setting. The panel will include opportunities for audience questions and discussion. In addition, the event includes a social networking break with food and an art showcase, as well as student and faculty presentations spanning a range of animal-related topics—from behavioral research and welfare to conservation and science communication.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with researchers, students, and professionals while exploring the intersection of psychology, animal behavior, and conservation.
Date: April 22, 2026
Time: 1:00 - 5:30 PM
Room: Salon Cassia (BMAIN 2.402)
Zoom Invite Link:
https://utrgv.zoom.us/j/6292715539?pwd=Z2l6dkwreU01NjdoZkI2NGJMNmdGUT09
ABMSS Organizers
Dr. Mario Gil
Dr. Wendy James-Aldridge
Claudia Martinez, M.A.
Associate Professor
Psychological Science
Claudia Martinez, M.A.
Dr. Wendy James-Aldridge
Claudia Martinez, M.A.
Lecturer II
Psychological Science
Dr. Wendy James-Aldridge
Dr. Wendy James-Aldridge
Dr. Wendy James-Aldridge
Curator of Behavioral Research
Gladys Porter Zoo
Patricia Scanlan, M.A.
Dr. Wendy James-Aldridge
Dr. Wendy James-Aldridge
Curator of Animal Welfare
Gladys Porter Zoo
Symposium Itinerary
Meet the Keynote Speaker
Dr. Michele Johnson
Dr. Johnson is a Professor of Biology at Trinity University, where she teaches courses in evolution, integrative biology, and vertebrate biology. She earned her Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology from Washington University in St. Louis and completed postdoctoral training in Behavioral Neuroscience at Michigan State University. Dr. Johnson joined Trinity University in 2009 and has since built an internationally recognized research program focused on the evolution of social behavior in lizards.
She directs the Lizards and Friends lab, where her team investigates how ecological factors and physiological mechanisms shape behavior, primarily using Caribbean Anolis lizards as a model system. Her work integrates field observations, laboratory experiments, molecular genetics, neuroendocrine techniques, and comparative approaches to understand behavioral evolution. She is also a recipient of multiple National Science Foundation grants and has published extensively on dominance, hormone–behavior relationships, and brain evolution.
In addition to her research, Dr. Johnson is deeply committed to mentoring students, advancing undergraduate research, and supporting women in science. She has received numerous teaching and mentoring awards at Trinity University and works closely with local educators to promote science education in the San Antonio community.
About the Gladys Porter Zoo Panel
Dr. Valerie James-Aldridge
Join us for a special panel featuring Dr. Valerie James-Aldridge, Curator of Behavior Research at the Gladys Porter Zoo. In this session, Mrs. Claudia Martinez will lead a dynamic interview exploring the role of behavioral research in modern zoo settings.
This conversation will highlight how applied research informs animal welfare, supports social management and introductions, and contributes to evidence-based decision-making in captive animal care. Dr. James-Aldridge will share insights from her work overseeing behavioral research programs, collaborating with academic partners, and translating scientific findings into practical strategies for improving animal well-being.
Attendees will gain a behind-the-scenes look at how research is conducted in a zoo environment, the challenges and opportunities of applied animal behavior work, and pathways for students interested in careers at the intersection of science, welfare, and conservation.
About the Entomology Student Art Showcase
Presented by Dr. Matthew Terry
The Entomology Student Art Showcase celebrates the intersection of science and creativity by highlighting student artwork inspired by the fascinating world of insects. This event provides a platform for students to translate scientific knowledge into visual expression, showcasing diverse interpretations of entomological concepts through art.
Presented by Dr. Matthew Terry, Associate Professor in the School of Integrative Biological & Chemical Sciences, the showcase emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary learning and science communication. By blending art and science, this event encourages students to engage more deeply with biological concepts while making them accessible and engaging to a broader audience.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a range of student-created pieces, appreciate the beauty and complexity of insect life, and see how creativity can enhance understanding of the natural world.
Meet the Students/Faculty Presenters
Dr. Angela Achorn
Mrs. Brittany Ramirez
Dr. Angela Achorn
Presenting
No, not that one! Testing inhibitory control in two primate species:
chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and olive baboons (Papio anubis)
Ramiro Gomez
Mrs. Brittany Ramirez
Dr. Angela Achorn
Presenting
Using Behavioral Monitoring to Assess Activity Patterns and Welfare Indicators in Captive Black Howler Monkeys (Alouatta Caraya)
Mrs. Brittany Ramirez
Mrs. Brittany Ramirez
Mrs. Brittany Ramirez
Presenting
Otherworldy Arguments: Teaching Science Writing in an Advanced Rhetoric & Composition Course
Dr. Randall Monty
Mrs. Brittany Ramirez
Mrs. Brittany Ramirez
Presenting
Otherworldy Arguments: Teaching Science Writing in an Advanced Rhetoric & Composition Course
Mildred Infante
Lilliana Guerrero
Renata Castillo
Presenting
Social Interactions across the estrous cycle in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus)
Renata Castillo
Lilliana Guerrero
Renata Castillo
Presenting
Integrating Behavioral and Physiological Welfare Indicators in Zoo-Housed Primates
Samantha Deleon
Lilliana Guerrero
Lilliana Guerrero
Lilliana Guerrero
Lilliana Guerrero
Lilliana Guerrero
Nikolas Moya
Raquel Villarreal
Samantha Solis
Samantha Solis
Raquel Villarreal
Samantha Solis
Presenting
Effects of sex, species, and visitor density on gibbon vocalization intensity
Raquel Villarreal
Raquel Villarreal
Raquel Villarreal
Presenting
Impact of Acute Stress on Circadian Rhythm Regulation of Locomotor Activity and Behavior in Syrian Hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus)
Humberto Bazan
Raquel Villarreal
Raquel Villarreal
Presenting
Effects of Limited Male Social Experience on Male-Male Bonding in Chimpanzees
Karla Hernandez
Karla Hernandez
Mia Real
Karla Hernandez
Presenting
Reproductive Biology, Behavior, and Captive Breeding Management in Ocelots (Leopardus pardalis): A Literature Review