Meet Our Team

Dr. James Costa has been a professor of Biology at Western Carolina University since 1996 and the Executive Director of Highlands Biological Station since 2006. He holds a dual B.S. in Biology and Philosophy from SUNY Cortland and an M.S. and Ph.D. in population genetics and entomology from the University of Georgia. With a passion for biogeography, ecology, and evolution, his teaching and research explore insect ecology and behavior, as well as the lives and legacies of Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace. A prolific author, Dr. Costa also writes extensively on the history of evolutionary thought.

Before joining Highlands Biological Station as Associate Director, Jason Love gained extensive experience working in various ecological research facilities, developing expertise in conservation and resource management. He holds a B.S. in Forest Resources from the University of Georgia and an M.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries Management from West Virginia University. With a strong background in ecological research and conservation, he plays a key role in supporting HBS' mission by overseeing operations, facilitating research initiatives, and fostering educational programs that promote environmental stewardship.

Patrick Brannon joined the Highlands Biological Station staff in 2003, bringing experience from previous roles in environmental education organizations. He holds a B.A. in Biology from UNC Asheville and an M.S. in Ecology from Appalachian State University. Passionate about education and outreach, he is dedicated to engaging communities in environmental science and making ecological concepts accessible. Through his work, he fosters a deeper appreciation for biodiversity and conservation while advancing HBS’s mission of research, education, and public engagement.

Sarah Vickery serves as the University Program Associate at the Highlands Biological Station, where she manages housing for visiting researchers and classes and oversees marketing efforts to promote the Station’s programs. She also serves as the primary point of contact for billing, Grant-in-Aid administration, and Human Resources processing, ensuring that the Station’s financial and personnel operations run efficiently.

Holding a B.F.A. in Ceramics from the University of New Hampshire, Sarah brings a strong background in administration and communications, along with diverse professional experience in Colorado and North Carolina, before establishing herself on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Her work plays a key role in supporting the Station’s educational and research initiatives while strengthening community engagement and institutional outreach.

Mike joined Highlands Biological Station as Facilities Manager in 2015, bringing extensive experience in business management and mechanical systems. Prior to HBS, he managed his own small business and worked in the heating and cooling industry, developing a strong skill set in maintenance, operations, and infrastructure management. At HBS, he plays a vital role in maintaining facilities, ensuring the functionality of research and educational spaces, and supporting the station’s daily operations. His expertise helps sustain a well-equipped and efficient environment for researchers, students, and visitors.

Dr. Rada Petric earned her B.S. and M.S. in Biology from UNC Greensboro before completing a Ph.D. in Environmental Health Science at the same institution. Her passion for research and education led her to continue at UNC Greensboro as a post-doctoral fellow before joining Highlands Biological Station. As part of her role, she is actively involved in the Institute for the Environment, where she supports mentoring opportunities and program development. She also conducts research on bat ecology, contributing to a broader understanding of their behavior and conservation. Whether you're interested in environmental research, academic collaborations, or bat ecology, Rada is a valuable resource for insight and engagement.

Angelina Guerrero serves as the full-time Research Assistant at the Highlands Biological Station, where she supports a variety of ongoing research initiatives. Her work includes projects focused on bat hibernacula and habitat, wetland management, and the study of microplastics in the Southern Appalachians.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Angelina is a recent graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned a B.S. in Biology and Environmental Science with a minor in Marine Sciences. During the summer of 2025, she conducted research on tri-colored bat habitat along the North Carolina coast.

Angelina first connected with HBS as a student in the Avian Biology course in the summer of 2023 and returned in 2024 through the UNC Field Site program. She is passionate about ecology, conservation, and species–habitat interactions, and is excited to gain hands-on research experience as part of the HBS research team.

Outside of work, Angelina enjoys hiking, tossing around a frisbee, working on crafts, and spending quiet time outdoors.