Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams is a Professor of Earth System Science at Clark University's School of Geography and Director of the Environmental Sciences Program. He specializes in terrestrial ecosystems, global environmental change, and climate change, focusing on forest carbon dynamics, remote sensing, and climate mitigation strategies. His work bridges science and policy, informing decision-makers worldwide through projects like the National Forest Carbon Monitoring System (NFCMS).

Education:

• Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences, Duke University, 2004
• M.S. in Watershed Science, Colorado State University, 2000
• B.A. in Biology and Environmental Studies, Bucknell University, 1996

Research Interests:

• Climate impacts of forest change
• Biophysical and carbon cycle responses to drought, wildfires, and urbanization
• Natural climate solutions, including reforestation and avoided deforestation
• Integration of satellite remote sensing and geospatial analytics

Grants & Collaborations:

• Funded by NASA, Doris Duke Foundation, and The Nature Conservancy
• Contributions to the North American Carbon Program (NACP) and U.S. Climate Alliance
• Development of decision-support tools for forest conservation (e.g., NFCMS)

Labs & Teams:

• Biogeosciences Research Group at Clark University
• Collaborations with Harvard Forest, NASA, and international organizations