Dr. Tracy’s scholarship interests include community ecology, conservation biology, behavioral ecology, invasive ecology, and avian biology. His current research interests include house finch dialects, prairie and forest succession, and the effects of invasive species on native biological communities. He is actively involved in research on the impact of European Buckthorn on native forests, funded by the Iowa Science Foundation.

Tracy has an extensive research background; he holds doctorate and master’s degrees in zoology from Colorado State University. Memberships include the Iowa Academy of Science and American Scientific Affiliation.