About

We live in a time of unprecedented environmental change. Noise and light pollution disrupt sensory cues, habitat destruction alters landscapes, and rising temperatures challenge cognition, health, and survival. Behavior is at the forefront of adaptation to these shifts, shaping how animals perceive and respond to their changing world.

To understand when and how behavior meets these challenges, behavioral biologists are drawing from an ever-expanding toolkit—combining machine learning and epigenetics with cognitive assays, field experiments, and neural circuit analysis. These integrative approaches allow us to trace how animals sense their environment, process information, and act in ways that influence survival and reproduction under rapidly shifting conditions.

The Southeastern Conference for Animal Behavior brings together researchers to explore these dynamic interactions and to mobilize and expand the network of behavioral biologists in the Southeast. By fostering collaboration and exchange, this conference aims to strengthen regional research connections and advance our understanding of behavioral adaptation in a changing world.

Agriculture and Natural Resource Building
Room 101/101A, Knoxville, TN 37996

September 26-27, 2025 (itinerary coming soon)
Friday, 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.: plenary speaker, poster session, social
Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.: talks, lunch (on your own), and more talks!

Nearby lodging options (no room blocks reserved):

• Marriott Knoxville Downtown
• Hilton Knoxville
• Hampton Inn & Suites
• Crowne Plaza Knoxville

Registration Fee

• Faculty – $50
• Students – $20