Alice Besterman

Dr. Alice Besterman is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Towson University. She holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from the University of Virginia and a B.S. in Environmental Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University. Her research focuses on estuarine and coastal ecology, particularly the interplay between landscape-scale physical drivers (e.g., tidal flooding) and ecological processes. She employs interdisciplinary methods from ecosystem ecology, geomorphology, and hydrology to address global change impacts and collaborate with applied scientists, land trusts, and community organizations. Dr. Besterman teaches BIOL 402/502: General Ecology and directs the Besterman Coastal Ecology Lab, recruiting Master's students and undergraduates for projects on salt marsh adaptation, tidal flat structure, and marine community dynamics.

Her work emphasizes socially relevant science, such as developing climate adaptation tools for salt marshes and studying invasive species' effects on shorebird habitats. Recent projects include assessing salt marsh vulnerability in the northeastern U.S. and analyzing heatwave impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Dr. Besterman's research has been featured in media outlets like WYPR and WCAI, highlighting its practical applications in conservation and coastal management.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Environmental Science, University of Virginia
  • B.S., Environmental Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University
• Key Research Themes:
  • Salt marsh climate adaptation via runnel systems
  • Invasive macroalgal impacts on intertidal ecosystems
  • Climate-driven aquatic heatwaves
• Labs/Teams: Besterman Coastal Ecology Lab
• Collaborations: Land trusts, natural resource managers, and community groups