I am a classically trained ecosystem/restoration ecologist and I use interdisciplinary, cross-scale methods to answer applied biological research questions both domestically and internationally. My research group studies the causes and consequences of ecosystem degradation and species endangerment and pursues research that seeks to understand how we can prioritize our restoration and conservation efforts, identify innovative restoration/conservation strategies, and highlight solutions to declining biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Projects include helping to launch the Black Earth Restoration Collective, a biodiversity ecosystem functioning experiment that mimics real-world restoration at Nachusa Grasslands, and ongoing work to track the recovery of island and nearshore marine systems following invasive mammal removal.
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The unifying theme of my research is applying basic ecological theory and principles to answer fundamental applied questions. I work with conservation non-profits, practitioners, and other researchers to incorporate environmental economics and public policy into my research.
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In my spare time, I enjoy reading fiction, spending time in nature, and cooking with my husband and two daughters, and playing with our husky mutt.