Alex J. Webster

Alex J. Webster is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of New Mexico specializing in ecosystem ecology with emphasis on freshwater systems and their resilience to environmental changes.

Dr. Webster's educational background includes:

• PhD in Ecology from University of California, Davis with Mary Cadenasso
• Undergraduate in Biological Sciences from Smith College

As an ecosystem ecologist, Dr. Webster investigates the resilience of ecosystems to increasing water scarcity and changing hydrologic regimes across diverse settings including desert cities, subarctic forests, and agricultural landscapes. Her research employs large temporally- and spatially-rich datasets to address questions about system connectivity and sustainability in the face of climate and land use change. She recognizes social and technological factors as integral to ecosystem processes in contemporary landscapes.

Dr. Webster leads The Webster Lab which studies the structure, function, and resilience of watersheds and freshwater-driven ecosystems. The lab addresses mounting pressures on biodiversity and ecosystem services caused by water scarcity in arid regions and changing hydrologic regimes worldwide. Utilizing interdisciplinary collaborations and community partnerships, the lab applies system science tools to understand complex interactions and identify leverage points for positive change.

Advancing equity in STEM education and research practices is integral to Dr. Webster's teaching, outreach, and service activities. Her work bridges ecological science with practical applications for creating more sustainable human-environment relationships.