Ellen O. Aikens

Dr. Ellen O. Aikens is an Assistant Professor with a joint appointment at the University of Wyoming's School of Computing and Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources. She holds a PhD in Ecology (University of Wyoming) and a BS in Biology and Environmental Studies (Ursinus College). Her research focuses on quantitative wildlife ecology, integrating animal tracking, remote sensing, and field studies to understand wildlife habitat needs and responses to environmental changes. A key emphasis is on migratory species like ungulates and birds, addressing conservation and management challenges through data-driven approaches.

Her research highlights include studying migratory behavior development, social dynamics in animal migrations, and the impact of human activities on migration patterns. Notable projects analyze how ungulates track vegetation phenology ('green waves') and how drought or energy development disrupts these patterns. These studies contribute to large-scale conservation planning and ecological understanding.

Publications span topics like migration ecology, climate change impacts, and animal movement tactics. Her work appears in journals such as *Nature Ecology and Evolution*, *Current Biology*, and *Ecology Letters*, emphasizing interdisciplinary methods to bridge ecological theory and applied conservation.

Dr. Aikens collaborates across institutions to advance migration science, advocating for experimental approaches and habitat connectivity solutions. Her contributions emphasize applying ecological insights to real-world conservation challenges, particularly for migratory species facing environmental and anthropogenic pressures.