{"id":2432,"date":"2026-06-08T13:37:33","date_gmt":"2026-06-08T18:37:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.missouriwestern.edu\/biology\/?page_id=2432"},"modified":"2026-06-08T13:37:46","modified_gmt":"2026-06-08T18:37:46","slug":"dr-aracely-a-newton-research-profile","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.missouriwestern.edu\/biology\/dr-aracely-a-newton-research-profile\/","title":{"rendered":"Dr. Aracely A. Newton | Research Profile"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\"Dr.<\/span><\/div>

Dr. Aracely A. Newton<\/span><\/h2><\/div>

Title:<\/strong><\/span> Associate Professor<\/span><\/span>
\nEmail:<\/strong> anewton4@missouriwestern.edu<\/a><\/span>
\nPhone:<\/strong> (816)271-4383<\/a><\/span>
\nAccepting Students:<\/strong> <\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Quick Bio<\/span><\/h2><\/div>

Dr. Aracely Newton has been at MoWest since 2019. Her research interests include prairie ecology, genetic diversity and pollinators.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>

Education\/Academic Qualifications<\/span><\/h2><\/div>

Ph.D., Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas and Stowers Institute for Medical Research<\/span>
\nB.S. Biology, B.S. Chemistry, University of Missouri – Kansas City<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Genetic Diversity in Bumble Bee Populations<\/h2><\/div>

Our group is interested in understanding the genetic diversity of bumble bees and other insects. Our studies take place primarily on the John Rushin Prairie, a 36-acre reconstructed prairie located on MoWest\u2019s campus. This prairie was established in 2020 and is a community-wide effect to grow plants that are native to the Midwest, including grasses and wildflowers.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Requirements<\/h3><\/div>

Interest in bumble bees and\/or genetic diversity.<\/p>\n<\/div>

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Highway 13 Butterfly Trail<\/h2><\/div>

This project is a collaborative ecological and community revitalization initiative transforming nearly 300 miles of western Missouri into a vibrant corridor for native pollinators\u2014and a destination for travelers, families, and nature lovers. Following the full length of Highway 13 from Bethany in the north to Branson in the south, the project connects a network of native wildflower habitats planted along roadsides, parks, and public spaces across twelve counties.<\/p>\n

Rooted in conservation and fueled by community partnerships, this trail reimagines how infrastructure, small towns, and natural ecosystems can thrive together. Whether you’re exploring Missouri\u2019s rural backroads or looking to contribute to habitat restoration, the Highway 13 Butterfly Trail offers a scenic, educational, and deeply impactful experience.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Requirements<\/h3><\/div>

Interest in native plants, prairies, pollinators or grassland ecology.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Past Research \/ Publications<\/span><\/h3><\/div>