Class of 2025: Macy Kailing harnesses the power of science to carve her path

Name: Macy Kailing

College: College of Science

Department: Biological Sciences

Degree: Ph.D. in biological sciences

Hometown: Big Rapids, Michigan

Plans after graduation: Postdoctoral Research Associate at University of Georgia Odum School of Ecology

Favorite Hokie memory: My participation in the seminars offered through the Global Change Center Interfaces of Global Change IGEP come to mind as memorable experiences. By discussing all the avenues through which science integrates to society, I came to realize that scientific contributions are not prescriptive.

Rather, science is most powerful when individuals follow different paths and contribute in unique ways. These types of discussions encouraged me to think more deeply about the type of scientist I want to be and how I can contribute my work meaningfully.

Research interest(s): Infectious disease ecology, biodiversity conservation.

Extracurricular Activities and Hobbies: Kayaking, running, and hiking with my dog.

What inspired you to choose your major, and how has it shaped your journey so far?
Since I was an undergraduate at Ferris State University in the environmental biology program, I was inspired by the complexity of biological systems and passionate about conserving it. I saw quickly that managing wildlife benefits from a deeper understanding of species’ ecology and is what I’ve been chasing ever since!

The complex interactions between wildlife hosts and pathogens are incredibly important for species persistence and ecosystem function but vastly underappreciated in wildlife conservation initiations. Addressing the disconnect between disease ecology and policy was the primary motivation for pursuing my Ph.D., and I hope will be the start of a long career in wildlife disease research.

Are there any professors or mentors who made a significant impact on your path
My advisor, Dr. Kate Langwig, has taught me so much about how to conduct science! Through her thoughtful guidance on my projects and the opportunity to engage in ambitious projects led by others in the lab, I gained entirely new perspectives on what makes impactful, quality, research and how to achieve it.

I also worked closely with Dr. Joseph Hoyt, who consistently pushes beyond the boundary of what is ‘feasible’ in ecology. Being exposed to his scientific approach has expanded the scope of what I thought was possible in ecological research. 

What are you most excited about as you step into this new chapter? In my next chapter, I am most excited to apply the scientific skills I gained at Virginia Tech and to continue developing my scientific philosophy. 

Anything else you would like to share?
Scientific research is impossible to do individually, and so much fun in a supportive environment. I can’t think of a single time through my Ph.D. when there wasn’t someone willing to step in and help me when I needed it. I think this speaks to the incredible community at Virginia Tech, including all the fellows, postdocs, and faculty in the Global Change Center.

All photos courtesy of Macy Kailing