Elisa Di Meglio

Elisa Di Meglio is an instructor in the Department of Botany and Plant Pathology at Oregon State University (OSU), affiliated with the College of Agricultural Sciences. She teaches courses such as BOT 341 (Plant Ecology), BOT 323 (Flowering Plants of the World), BOT 321 (Plant Systematics), and BOT 465 (Lichenology) through OSU's Ecampus program. Her research focuses on lichenology, plant ecology, and environmental monitoring, with a particular emphasis on Arctic ecosystems and the impacts of industrial activities like mining.

Education: Elisa earned her undergraduate degree at OSU and later completed a Master of Science under Professors Bruce McCune (BPP) and Rick Shiel (CEOAS). Her graduate research involved resampling moss and lichen communities in Arctic Alaska near the Red Dog Zinc Mine haul road, examining ecological responses to metal deposition and climate change. This work was supported by a 2018 NW Scientific Association grant.

Professional Background: Before her current role, Elisa worked as a biological technician for the USDA Forest Service, conducting botanical surveys in Alaska and Oregon. She also contributed to projects at the McCune Lab, OSU Herbarium, Plant Clinic, and Pharmacy Department's drug discovery lab. Her teaching emphasizes student-centered learning and engaging diverse audiences passionate about plant sciences.

Research Contributions: Elisa's work has advanced understanding of lichen biodiversity in Alaskan national parks, decadal changes in Arctic vegetation, and novel lichen species discovery. She employs field-based biomonitoring techniques and integrates taxonomic, chemical, and ecological approaches to address conservation and environmental management challenges.

Awards: Recipient of the 2018 NW Scientific Association grant for her Arctic lichen-metal deposition study. This work highlighted fugitive dust impacts on National Park Service lands and informed environmental policy discussions.

Teaching & Outreach: As an Ecampus instructor, Elisa designs accessible online curricula that bridge classroom learning with real-world ecological issues. She mentors students exploring plant systematics, lichenology, and ecological adaptations in extreme environments.