Casey T. Clark

Casey T. Clark is an academic researcher affiliated with the Joint Institute for the Study of Atmosphere and Ocean (JISAO) at the University of Washington. They also hold an affiliation with the Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ocean, and Ecosystem Studies at the same institution. Clark's research focuses on marine mammal biology, particularly using trace elements in tooth cementum to study weaning age in Pacific walruses. Their work integrates geochemistry, ecology, and conservation science to understand reproductive strategies and environmental impacts on Arctic species.

Clark’s recent study, published in *Methods in Ecology and Evolution*, evaluates strontium (Sr) and barium (Ba) concentrations in walrus teeth as indicators of weaning age. The research highlights methodological approaches using laser ablation and ICP-MS, with implications for wildlife management and climate change adaptation. Collaborations include the University of Alaska Fairbanks and funding from NSF, BOEM, and NOAA.

Key contributions include advancing understanding of trace element physiology in marine mammals and developing high-resolution tools for life history analysis. Their work underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing ecological challenges faced by Arctic species.