Donald A. McFarlane

Donald A. McFarlane is the Kenneth S. Pitzer Professor of Biology & Environmental Science at the College of Natural Sciences, Claremont Graduate University. He teaches courses including Introductory Biology, General Ecology, Evolution, Tropical Ecology, and UAV applications in environmental science.

• BSc (Zoology, Hons), University of Liverpool (UK), 1978
• MSc (Zoology), Queen’s University of Belfast (UK), 1982
• PhD (Ecology), University of Southern California, 1987

His research spans cave ecology, bat ecosystem dynamics, and paleoenvironmental records preserved in subterranean habitats. Secondary interests include active volcanic lakes and high explosives properties. His work integrates ecological and geochemical approaches to understand nutrient cycling in karst systems.

Recent publications focus on biogeochemical processes in bat caves, cosmogenic dating of guano deposits, and explosives engineering applications. Key trends include tropical cave ecosystems, radiometric dating techniques, and interdisciplinary studies bridging ecology with geochemistry.

• Kenneth S. Pitzer Professorship

McFarlane advises students in ecology and environmental science, with affiliations across Claremont’s biology, environmental analysis, and molecular biology programs. His work involves field studies in caves and volcanic environments, utilizing advanced analytical methods.