Daniel Hernández

Daniel Hernández is a Professor of Biology at Carleton College, where he has been affiliated since 2009. He holds roles in interdisciplinary programs such as the UC Santa Cruz Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program (2016–2025) and chairs the board of Sharing Our Roots (2022–2024). His work bridges ecological research, conservation, and education. He earned a PhD in Biology from the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Hernández’s research focuses on prairie ecosystems, restoration ecology, and the impacts of land management practices. Key areas include soil carbon dynamics, biodiversity conservation, plant-herbivore interactions, and the effects of climate change on plant communities. He actively participates in field-based studies, emphasizing practical applications for sustainable agriculture and wildlife management.

He teaches advanced courses such as Directed Research in Biology (BIOL 394), Global Change Biology (BIOL 210), and interdisciplinary courses like Food, Forests & Resilience (ENTS 250). His courses often incorporate fieldwork, including a study abroad program in Oaxaca (ENTS 251).

His research outputs emphasize ecosystem resilience, invasive species control, and the interplay between human activities and natural systems. Notable studies explore grazing impacts on prairie diversity and the ecological roles of keystone species like beavers and wolves.

Dr. Hernández’s lab, the Conservation Science and Stewardship Lab, fosters collaborative projects with environmental organizations and policymakers to inform conservation strategies. He advocates for community engagement in ecological stewardship and STEM accessibility for underrepresented groups through SACNAS and SACNAS.