The Kemp Lab is a group of scientists in the Department of Integrative Biology, lead by Dr. Melissa Kemp. We use the fossil record, historical data, and modern ecological data to understand why some species go extinct and others persist or even thrive in changing environments.  In addition to our research, we are also committed to sharing our knowledge and passion for science with others, particularly children. We regularly perform outreach in Texas and Jamaica to ignite a passion for STEM in younger generations.

Members of the Kemp lab teaching Austin middle school students about lizard morphology
Jamaican vertebrate paleontology workshop for Jamaican students at the University of the West Indies Mona, organized by the Kemp Lab.

Dr. Kemp is the UT faculty director of the NEET Young Innovators Program, which was established in 2021. She has over 15 years of experience conducting research and outreach in the Caribbean.