معرفی
Dr. Clay Nielsen is a Professor of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the Department of Forestry and Cooperative Wildlife Research Laboratory, Southern Illinois University (SIU), where he earned his Ph.D. in Zoology (2001). He has secured over $13 million in research funding and advised more than 70 graduate students, postdocs, and international scholars.
- Education: Ph.D. in Zoology (SIU, 2001), M.S. in Environmental and Forest Biology (SUNY-ESF, 1996), B.S. in Natural Resources (University of Nebraska, 1994)
Dr. Nielsen’s research focuses on wildlife conservation, habitat ecology, and human-wildlife conflict. His work spans continents (North America, Central America, South America, Asia) and taxa, including carnivores, herbivores, and furbearers. He leads studies on species like cougars, jaguars, deer, and armadillos.
His recent publications address topics such as contaminant exposure in marine ecosystems, carnivore behavior in steppe habitats, and public perception of apex predators. These works reflect his interdisciplinary approach, integrating toxicology, behavioral ecology, and social science.
- Scientific Awards: 2014 Outstanding Scholar Award (College of Agricultural Sciences, SIU)
Dr. Nielsen has employed over 235 technicians and delivered 650+ invited lectures. He previously directed the non-profit Cougar Network and served on IUCN Specialist Groups for cats, lagomorphs, and deer. His research has been featured in major media like TIME, BBC, and National Geographic.
