Erle Ellis

Erle Ellis is a Professor of Geography and Environmental Systems at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), where he directs the Anthroecology Laboratory. His interdisciplinary research spans human-environment interactions at multiple scales, focusing on the ecology of human landscapes and biosphere stewardship in the Anthropocene. Ellis pioneered the concept of anthropogenic biomes (anthromes) to reframe ecological research on human-dominated systems.

• Ph.D., Cornell University (1990)
• Teaching: Environmental Science, Landscape Ecology at UMBC; Ecology at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design
• Key projects: GLOBE (global synthesis of local knowledge), Ecosynth (inexpensive 3D landscape mapping), Nature Relationship Index (NRI)

His recent publications address planetary futures, ecological metrics, and restoration feasibility, with work featured in Nature, PNAS, and Annual Reviews. Ellis serves as a lead author for the IPBES Transformative Change Assessment and has received recognition as a Global Highly Cited Researcher and UMBC Presidential Research Professor.

Scientific Awards

• UMBC Presidential Research Professor (2021–2024)
• Global Highly Cited Researcher
• Fellow, Global Land Programme
• Senior Fellow, Breakthrough Institute
• Visiting Fellow, Oxford Martin School (2023–2024)

Ellis collaborates with international institutions including the Breakthrough Institute, Global Land Programme, and IPBES. His lab alumni and professional networks reflect extensive mentorship in environmental systems research.