Nicki Bailey

Hi there!

Current Position: Graduate Research Assistant, Doctoral Student

Graduate Degree Program in Ecology,  Colorado State University

Advisor: Dr. John Mola (Assistant Professor) https://molalab.org/

Education:

• PhD Ecology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado (Aug 2025-Present)

• MS Ecology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado (2025)

• BA Biology, Kalamazoo College, Kalamazoo, Michigan (2021)

Research Interest: Pollination, urban ecology, community dynamics, plant-insect interactions, honey bee invasion and native bee competition

More about me

I am originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, and my passion for pollinator research began during my four years at Kalamazoo College. I had the opportunity to research native bees in a powerline right-of-way habitat and helped pilot a bumble bee citizen science project with my mentor Dr. Ann Fraser. I also competed on the diving team and studied abroad in Quito, Ecuador. Following my time at K College, I worked as a field technician for the Michigan Natural Features Inventory, studying rare insects, and then moved to Arches National Park as an education technician. I worked as a marketing intern in Grand Rapids before finally returning to graduate school to combine my passions of research and outreach. 

Since coming to CSU, I've had a wonderful experience learning how to become a better researcher and exploring the state. Outside of graduate school, I love seeing live music, skiing, hiking, and sitting outside with a good book. I also spend time drawing and crocheting. Check out my illustrations tab to see my scientific illustrations!