Monika Calef

Dr. Monika Calef is an Associate Professor of Physical Geography and Director of the Environmental Studies Concentration at Soka University of America. She holds a PhD in Environmental Sciences from the University of Virginia, an MS in Environmental Studies from Ohio University, and a BA in Geography and German from Augustana College. Her research focuses on boreal forest ecology, climate change impacts, wildfire dynamics, and ecosystem modeling in Alaska and the Arctic.

Education:

• PhD, Environmental Sciences (Ecology), University of Virginia
• MS, Environmental Studies (Environmental Monitoring), Ohio University
• BA, Geography and German, Augustana College

Research Interests:

Dr. Calef studies wildfire behavior in boreal forests, climate-driven changes in vegetation, and human-fire interactions. She examines how fire management policies and climate variability influence Alaska’s ecosystems. Her work integrates spatial analysis, ecological modeling, and interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex environmental challenges.

Awards:

• Dr. Nuala Gann-Drescher Award (2010)

Teaching & Leadership:

She teaches courses such as Physical Geography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Biogeography. As Environmental Studies Director, she oversees interdisciplinary programs addressing ecological sustainability. Her academic roles include tenure at Soka (2010–present) and prior positions at the University at Albany, SUNY, and the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Labs & Collaborations:

Her research often involves partnerships with institutions like the University of Alaska Fairbanks and NASA, focusing on Arctic and boreal ecosystems. Projects include analyzing wildfire exposure in northern communities and modeling landcover changes under climate scenarios.