Danielle C. Zacherl

Danielle C. Zacherl is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at California State University, Fullerton. She holds a PhD from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a BA from Brown University. Her research focuses on marine ecology, particularly larval behavior, population connectivity, restoration ecology, and marine invertebrates, with a strong emphasis on the Olympia oyster (Ostrea lurida). The Zacherl Lab has conducted long-term restoration projects since 2010 and population monitoring since 2005, addressing ecological challenges in coastal ecosystems.

Her work integrates molecular, ecological, and oceanographic approaches to understand larval dispersal and species conservation. Key contributions include studies on larval vertical migration in gastropods and genetic mechanisms influencing population structure. Current projects prioritize science-based restoration strategies for native oyster populations and intertidal habitat recovery.

Advising includes mentoring student researchers (listed above) on projects ranging from larval settlement dynamics to molecular taxonomy. The lab’s interdisciplinary approach bridges fieldwork and laboratory analysis, contributing to both academic and applied ecological outcomes.