Find Academic Supervisors

• Thermal Biology
• Animal Behavior
• Urban Ecology
• +3 more

Dr Dominic McCafferty is a Senior Lecturer in Physiology, Ageing & Welfare at the University of Glasgow, based at the Scottish Centre for Ecology and the Natural Environment. He holds academic roles including Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Thermal Biology and previously Ibis . His research focuses on thermal adaptation, behavioral thermoregulation, and urban wildlife ecology, particularly using thermal imaging techniques. He has a Ph.D. and BSc in Ecological Science from the University of Edinburgh (1989–1993 and 1985–1989). His work spans physiological studies in mammals, birds, and marine species, emphasizing conservation applications. Notable projects include habitat suitability modeling for urban water voles and thermal physiology studies in elephant seals. His educational background includes advanced studies in ecological science, complemented by post-doctoral research at institutions like the British Antarctic Survey (1993–1998). He has contributed to over 99 publications, advancing methodologies in non-invasive wildlife monitoring and ecological field studies. His editorial roles reflect expertise in thermal biology and avian science. McCafferty has led projects on carrion dynamics, stress physiology, and behavioral adaptations in diverse species, with a focus on applying findings to conservation challenges. Labs/Teams: Scottish Centre for Ecology and the Natural Environment (SCENE), part of the broader University of Glasgow's ecological research network. Collaborations include the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle in France and the National Trust for Scotland.

Anna HopkinsView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Conservation Biology
• Molecular Ecology
• Soil Microbial Ecology
• +5 more

Dr. Anna Hopkins is a Senior Lecturer in conservation biology and molecular ecology at Edith Cowan University's School of Science. She is the Course Coordinator for postgraduate Environmental Science programs and has held academic positions since 2016. Her research focuses on soil microbial ecology, forest pathogens, eDNA applications, and climate change impacts. She has taught courses including Plant Pathology, Genetics, and Soil Processes. Education: PhD (University of Tasmania, 2007), Diploma of Modern Languages (UWA, 2002), BSc (Hons) (UWA, 2002) Her research interests include mycorrhizal-plant interactions, soil fungal responses to disturbances, and regenerative agriculture. Notable awards include the 2010 New Zealand Zonta Women in Science Award and the 2017 ECU Athena Swan Award. Recent articles highlight her work on soil microbial dynamics, invasive species management, and eDNA applications in ecology. She has led projects funded by organizations like the Australian Coal Association and WWF Australia, focusing on biodiversity restoration and ecosystem health. Awards: Multiple international and teaching awards, including recognition for poster presentations and research excellence. Advising & Grants: Supervises 5 PhD/MSc students and leads grants totaling over $1M in projects like eDNA tracking and Gilbert’s Potoroo conservation. Professional roles include Deputy Coordinator of the IUFRO Working Party on Forest Nurseries and Vice President of the Australasian Mycological Society.

Ian KaneView profile

Professor

• Environmental Science
• Geology
• Marine Geology
• +3 more

Dr. Ian Kane is a Reader in Earth and Environmental Sciences at The University of Manchester, leading the 'Plastics in the Natural Environment' theme within the Manchester Environmental Research Group. His expertise spans sediment transport dynamics, deep-marine processes, and microplastic pollution. He holds editorial roles for journals like Sedimentologika and previously served as Editor-in-Chief of Sedimentology (2018–2022). Education: PhD in Geology from the University of Leeds (2007), focusing on submarine channel-levee systems and turbidity currents through fieldwork in Baja California, Mexico, and flume-tank modeling. Research Interests: Transport and burial of microplastics in deep-sea environments via turbidity currents Deep-marine sedimentological processes, including submarine canyons and slope systems Stratigraphic records of sediment gravity flows and anthropogenic impacts Recent articles highlight breakthroughs in understanding microplastic distribution via deep-sea currents and their ecological effects on marine organisms such as sea turtles. His work bridges geology, environmental science, and applied research on pollution mitigation. Scientific Awards: Fearnsides Prize (2008) Roland Goldring Award (2012) Advising and Grants: Supervised over 20 PhD students, with active projects on PFAS transport, microplastic stratigraphy, and deep-marine sedimentology. His research group (SedResQ) explores terrestrial-to-deep-marine sediment transfer. Labs/Teams: Leads SedResQ and collaborates globally on projects like the NEPTUNE Canada observatory, focusing on deep-sea environmental dynamics and anthropogenic impact assessment.

Russell MittermeierView profile

Adjunct Professor

• Primate Conservation
• Herpetology
• Biodiversity Conservation
• +3 more

Russell Mittermeier is an Adjunct Professor at the State University of New York at Stony Brook and Chief Conservation Officer at Re:wild. He holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Biological Anthropology from Harvard University and a B.A. from Dartmouth College (Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa). His career spans over 45 years in biodiversity conservation, with fieldwork in 30+ countries, focusing on Amazonia, Atlantic Forest, and Madagascar. Education : Ph.D. and M.A. in Biological Anthropology (Harvard), B.A. (Dartmouth) Mittermeier's research centers on primate and herpetofauna conservation, species discovery (18 new species described), and linking biodiversity to climate change mitigation. He has authored 35 books and over 650 publications, advocating for conservation corridors and partnerships with indigenous communities. His 2015–2019 publications demonstrate interdisciplinary work across primatology, herpetology, and conservation policy, with a focus on tropical ecosystems. Recent studies include taxonomic revisions of titi monkeys, cactus extinction risks, and Amazon turtle hotspots. Scientific Awards : TIME Magazine Hero for the Planet Honorary Doctorate from SUNY Stony Brook Lifetime Honorary IUCN Member Mittermeier collaborates with global institutions like IUCN, Conservation International, and the Margot Marsh Biodiversity Foundation, emphasizing fieldwork, scientific rigor, and community engagement to protect Earth's most vulnerable ecosystems.

Henry StrebyView profile

Associate Professor

• Avian ecology
• Wildlife ecology
• Evolutionary biology
• +5 more

Dr. Henry Streby is an Associate Professor of Ecology in the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Toledo, where he leads the Streby Lab. He also holds an appointment as Adjunct Assistant Professor and is recognized as a Fellow of the American Ornithological Society. Education: Ph.D. in Ecology from University of Minnesota Research Focus: Dr. Streby's research spans avian ecology , wildlife ecology , evolutionary biology , and quantitative science . His work particularly emphasizes organismal ecology with applications to conservation and management of migratory songbirds. Key research areas include: Migratory connectivity and seasonal interactions Conservation biology of declining songbird populations Behavioral ecology of breeding and migratory birds Quantitative methods in wildlife research Effects of environmental change on bird populations Research Impact: Dr. Streby's work has significantly advanced understanding of songbird migration, particularly in Vermivora warblers and golden-winged warblers. His 2015 Current Biology paper on tornado avoidance behavior in songbirds received extensive international media coverage and reached the 99th percentile of all articles tracked by Altmetric. His recent research continues to explore migratory connectivity, hybridization patterns, and conservation strategies for North American migratory birds. Awards and Recognition: 2021 President's Award for Excellence in Scholarly Activity (University of Toledo) Elected Fellow of the American Ornithological Society (2021) 2013 Cooper Ornithological Society Young Professional Award Multiple best presentation awards at professional conferences Student Mentorship and Lab: Dr. Streby has successfully mentored numerous graduate students who have gone on to prestigious positions. Notable former students include: Gunnar Kramer (PhD 2021) - now Assistant Professor at Iowa State University Silas Fischer - recipient of multiple awards and fellowships Sean Peterson - pursued PhD at UC Berkeley Kyle Pagel - Environmental Scientist with California Department of Fish and Wildlife Annie Lindsay - active in migration research The Streby Lab continues to be highly productive, with ongoing research on Gray Vireos, migration ecology, and conservation applications. The lab maintains active field sites and collaborates extensively with other institutions and agencies.

Sarah AldermanView profile

Assistant Professor

• Comparative Physiology
• Environmental Toxicology
• Endocrinology
• +3 more

Sarah Alderman is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Integrative Biology at the University of Guelph, within the College of Biological Science. Her research focuses on comparative animal physiology, particularly examining how environmental stressors like temperature and pollutants affect physiological systems in aquatic organisms. She leads the Alderman Lab ( comparativephys.ca/aldermanlab ), which investigates stress physiology, endocrinology, and toxicology in species such as salmon, zebrafish, and reptiles. Her teaching includes courses like ZOO*3600 - Comparative Animal Physiology I (Fall 2024) and ZOO*3620 - Comparative Animal Physiology II (Winter 2025). Research themes emphasize the impacts of diluted bitumen exposure on fish development, cortisol regulation in stress responses, and proteomic adaptations to environmental challenges. Her work bridges basic physiology with applied conservation and environmental management. Dr. Alderman’s publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches, combining molecular biology, ecology, and toxicology. Key areas include latent toxicity of pollutants, stress signaling pathways in fish, and biomarkers of parasitism in aquatic species. Her lab’s findings contribute to understanding organismal resilience and ecosystem health under anthropogenic pressures.

• River Ecology
• Wetland Conservation
• Conservation Biology
• +7 more

Professor Richard Kingsford is a distinguished river ecologist and conservation biologist at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), serving as Director of the Centre for Ecosystem Science within the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences. With a career spanning over three decades since earning his PhD from the University of Sydney in 1986, he has established himself as a leading expert on Australian river systems. His research focuses on river ecology and conservation biology, particularly in the wetlands and rivers of the Murray-Darling Basin and Lake Eyre Basin. Kingsford's work integrates field ecology with policy development, having previously worked for the NSW Government Environment agency from 1986-2004 before transitioning to academia. He has made significant contributions to understanding how river regulation impacts ecosystems and biodiversity. Kingsford's recent publications demonstrate his expertise in freshwater ecosystem science, adaptive management approaches, and conservation interventions. His research spans from fundamental ecological studies of river systems to applied conservation projects including the Wild Deserts rewilding initiative in Sturt National Park and the Platypus Conservation Initiative. He has developed expertise in using emerging technologies like drone imagery and remote sensing for ecosystem monitoring. As an influential researcher, Kingsford has served on numerous state and federal advisory committees, helping translate scientific findings into river policy and management practices across Australia. His work bridges the gap between academic research and practical conservation outcomes through community engagement and strategic adaptive management approaches. Director of the Centre for Ecosystem Science, UNSW Leader of Wild Deserts rewilding project Expert in Murray-Darling Basin and Lake Eyre Basin ecosystems Specialist in freshwater conservation and adaptive management

Cameron AinsworthView profile

Professor

• Fisheries Biology
• Ecosystem Modeling
• Marine Resource Management
• +5 more

Cameron Ainsworth is a Professor at the University of South Florida’s College of Marine Science , specializing in biological oceanography and fisheries ecosystem modeling . His research focuses on how human activities and climate change affect marine ecosystems, with an emphasis on developing tools for ecosystem-based management. He leads the Fisheries and Ecosystem Ecology Lab , where he and his students use advanced modeling techniques to assess marine food webs, population dynamics, and environmental policy outcomes. Education: Ph.D. in Oceanography, University of British Columbia (2006) Research Interests: Dr. Ainsworth’s work integrates ecosystem modeling , fisheries management , and climate impact assessment . His lab uses statistical and numerical models to simulate marine ecosystems, evaluate the effects of oil spills, and inform marine protected area design. A major focus is the Gulf of Mexico , where he collaborates with NOAA and regional agencies to support Integrated Ecosystem Assessments . Scientific Awards: Sloan Research Fellowship (2013) – awarded for outstanding early-career contributions to marine science Lab and Team: Dr. Ainsworth leads the Fisheries and Ecosystem Ecology Lab at USF, which includes graduate students and postdocs working on projects related to oil spill recovery, marine restoration, and fisheries management. The lab is actively involved in NOAA-funded initiatives and Gulf-wide ecosystem assessments.

Ben GilbyView profile

Associate Professor

• Coastal and Marine Ecology
• Spatial Ecology
• Ecological Restoration
• +3 more

Associate Professor Ben Gilby is a coastal and marine ecologist at the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC), specializing in ecological restoration, conservation biology, and spatial ecology. He holds an Associate Professor position in Animal Ecology within the School of Science, Technology and Engineering. His research focuses on optimizing ecosystem management through systematic planning, spatial ecology, and ecological indicators, with expertise in coastal fish habitats and shellfish reef restoration. He collaborates extensively with government agencies, NGOs, and industries to address ecological monitoring, restoration, and environmental planning challenges. Ben Gilby's education includes a PhD and BSc(Hons) from Griffith University (Griff) and the University of Queensland (Qld). His teaching includes courses on endangered animals, coastal and marine ecology, and restoration ecology. His research has been published widely in journals like Ecology , Conservation Biology , and Restoration Ecology , with a focus on seascape connectivity, urbanization impacts, and the ecological functions of coastal habitats. Key research topics include shellfish reef restoration, nutrient offsetting using coastal wetlands, and the integration of spatial ecology into conservation planning. He coordinates postgraduate research on coastal fish ecology, ecological restoration hotspots, and the ecological roles of coastal habitats. His work emphasizes maximizing ecological, social, and economic outcomes through evidence-based approaches.

Matthew E. WolakView profile

Associate Professor

• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Quantitative Genetics
• +12 more

Matthew E. Wolak is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Auburn University, where he leads a research group focused on evolutionary ecology and quantitative genetics. His work bridges empirical field studies, laboratory experiments, and computational modeling to understand how natural selection and inheritance shape phenotypic variation across generations. Education: Ph.D., University of California, Riverside (2013) B.Sc., The College of William and Mary (2007) His research interests center on ecology, evolution, and quantitative methods, particularly in understanding individual differences in morphology, performance, and behavior, and how these affect survival, mating success, and reproductive output. He investigates sexual dimorphism, inbreeding, genetic variance, and the evolutionary consequences of environmental change using both theoretical and data-driven approaches. His recent publications span top-tier journals and reveal a strong focus on meta-analysis, animal models, genetic inheritance, and conservation applications. Themes across his work include the genetic architecture of fitness, repeatability of behavior, and responses to anthropogenic pressures such as urbanization and climate change. Scientific Awards: NSF CAREER Award ($1.2 million) Dr. Wolak actively mentors students, as evidenced by his guidance of PhD candidates like Molly and Jorge. His research is supported by significant grants, including the NSF CAREER award, reflecting national recognition of his contributions. He teaches courses such as Principles of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at both undergraduate and graduate levels. He is affiliated with the Wolak Research Group at Auburn University, which emphasizes scientific integrity, inclusivity, and collaborative research. The lab fosters a supportive environment committed to equity and academic excellence in evolutionary ecology.

• Marine Economics
• Fisheries Management
• Environmental Conservation
• +3 more

Dale Edward Squires is an economist affiliated with the Southwest Fisheries Science Center under the US NOAA Fisheries in La Jolla, California, and serves as an Adjunct Professor of Economics at the University of California San Diego . His work bridges economic analysis with marine conservation and fisheries policy. Research interests include: Marine economics and fisheries management Bycatch mitigation strategies Conservation agreements and policy frameworks Data-limited fisheries analysis Stakeholder-driven resource governance Deep sea mining regulations Recent publications focus on multidisciplinary approaches to bycatch reduction, sustainable tuna management, shark conservation frameworks, and stakeholder participation in deep-sea mining policies. His collaborations span institutions in the US, UK, Sweden, and international foundations.

Paul SievertView profile

Adjunct Associate Professor

• Conservation Biology
• Physiological Ecology
• Biostatistics

Paul Sievert is an Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, affiliated with the Department of Environmental Conservation. His research focuses on the conservation of threatened and endangered species, including freshwater turtles, salamanders, butterflies, marine birds, and Sumatran tigers. Education: Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania Dr. Sievert’s work spans three primary areas: conservation biology , where he investigates population dynamics of endangered species; physiological ecology , examining how energy and water balance affect nesting ecology and species range boundaries; and biostatistics , developing methods for survival rate estimation and population viability analysis. While no scientific awards or honors are explicitly mentioned in the text, Dr. Sievert contributes to conservation science through his research group’s fieldwork and quantitative modeling. His work integrates ecological physiology with statistical frameworks to address biodiversity loss.

Kate MansfieldView profile

Professor

• Sea Turtle Ecology
• Marine Conservation
• Animal Movement
• +3 more

Kate Mansfield is a Professor of Biology and Davis-Shine Endowed Professor of Conservation Biology at the University of Central Florida, where she directs the Marine Turtle Research Group (MTRG). Her research spans all life stages of sea turtles from nesting ecology to oceanic juvenile dispersal. Research programs include: Long-term monitoring of nesting populations in the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge Health assessments of juvenile turtles in Indian River Lagoon foraging habitats Satellite tracking of oceanic-stage juvenile turtles during their 'lost years' International collaborations studying sea turtle dispersal patterns The MTRG maintains field sites in Florida's Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, which supports the largest loggerhead rookery in the Western Hemisphere and significant green turtle nesting. Coastal research examines impacts of harmful algal blooms, disease ecology, and diet composition on juvenile turtle health. Offshore tracking studies in the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans provide pioneering data on juvenile sea turtle movements and dispersal. Dr. Mansfield offers summer internships at UCF's coastal field station and maintains scientific partnerships with Brazil's Projecto TAMAR and the Sargasso Sea Commission.

Tiffany Roberts BriggsView profile

Associate Professor

• Coastal Geomorphology
• Beach Morphodynamics
• Sedimentology
• +5 more

Tiffany Roberts Briggs serves as Chair and Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences at Florida Atlantic University. Her academic foundation includes a Ph.D. (2012), M.S. (2008), and B.S. in Environmental Science with Honors (2006), all from the University of South Florida. Her research centers on coastal geomorphology and sedimentology , with critical focus on beach-dune-nearshore system responses to natural events like hurricanes and anthropogenic interventions including coastal engineering. Key specialties include beach morphology evolution, microplastics in coastal sediments, sea turtle habitat characterization, and coastal resilience strategies. Current projects involve Hurricane Ian impact analysis, regional sediment management, and decadal-scale inlet dynamics. Teaching portfolio spans undergraduate and graduate courses including Physical Geology, Coastal and Marine Science, Shore Erosion & Protection, and specialized topics in beach morphodynamics. She actively mentors graduate students through directed research courses and supervises thesis work evident in her co-authored publications with student researchers. Briggs directs research at the Coastal Studies Lab and leads field investigations across Southeast Florida coastlines. Her work integrates advanced methodologies including LiDAR, aerial imagery, and GIS modeling for coastal change assessment. Recent publications reveal strong collaboration with agencies like USACE and NOAA, particularly in post-hurricane damage evaluation and community resilience planning.

Julia RileyView profile

Assistant Professor

• Amphibian Ecology
• Reptile Behavior
• Evolutionary Biology
• +3 more

Dr. Julia Riley is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Mount Allison University. Her research focuses on amphibian and reptile behavior, evolution, and ecology, with a strong emphasis on conservation. She leads the Riley Integrative Ecology Lab, which investigates topics such as social behavior in lizards, developmental plasticity in reptiles, and the impacts of urbanization on species adaptation. Dr. Riley collaborates with institutions across Canada and globally, including Dalhousie University and the New Brunswick Museum. Her work integrates behavioral ecology, evolutionary biology, and conservation science, addressing questions like how environmental factors shape animal traits and how urbanization affects ecological interactions. She actively promotes conservation strategies, such as evaluating protective measures for turtle nests and mitigating road mortality for amphibians and reptiles. Research Themes: Amphibian/Reptile Conservation, Behavioral Ecology, Urban Ecology, Evolutionary Adaptation Key Collaborations: Dr. Joshua Baxter-Gilbert, Dr. Mike Whiting, Dr. Liese Schwanz Funding Partners: NSERC, New Brunswick Innovation Fund, Nature Conservancy of Canada Dr. Riley’s lab emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining fieldwork with quantitative analysis. She mentors students in MSc/PhD programs through her adjunct appointments and prioritizes training in grant writing, field techniques, and ethical research practices.