Darwyn Coxson

Darwyn Coxson is a Professor in the Ecosystem Science and Management Program within the Faculty of Environment at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC). As a founding faculty member of UNBC, he has played a pivotal role in shaping academic and research initiatives, including serving as past Director of the Natural Resources and Environmental Studies Institute and as a member of the UNBC Board and Senate. He is actively involved in graduate education, supervising students in the NRES (Natural Resources and Environmental Studies) graduate programs.

Dr. Coxson’s research centers on lichen ecology, particularly the symbiotic relationships between fungi and algae, and has expanded into conservation biology of inland temperate rainforest ecosystems in British Columbia. His work emphasizes the ecological significance of old-growth forests and has directly influenced land management practices in the region. Key research areas include biodiversity, forest management, environmental physiology, and the conservation of critical habitats.

His recent publications reflect a strong focus on the inland temperate rainforest and interior wetbelt biomes, with studies assessing the viability of protected areas for lichen conservation and the ecological roles of ancient western redcedar stands. These works span disciplines such as ecology, biogeography, and environmental management, with subfields including habitat fragmentation, climate resilience, and ecosystem engineering.

Dr. Coxson has held leadership roles in academic governance, including serving as past-President of the B.C. Confederation of University Faculty Members (CUFA-BA), representing post-secondary institutions across the province. While no formal scientific awards are listed, his policy impact and editorial contributions to major scientific references underscore his recognition in the field.

He is currently accepting graduate students in the MSc and PhD programs in Biology under the NRES umbrella and is available as a media expert on topics related to lichen ecology and forest conservation. His research continues to bridge science and policy, advocating for sustainable management of British Columbia’s unique forest ecosystems.