Jaime Coon

Jaime Coon is an Assistant Professor of Biology and Environmental Sustainability at Earlham College, located in Richmond, Indiana. She holds a Ph.D. in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2020) and a B.S. in Biology and Global Justice from Central Michigan University. Her research focuses on interdisciplinary conservation science, particularly habitat restoration in human-dominated landscapes and the social dimensions of conservation on private lands.

Her work combines ecological field studies (e.g., bird, arthropod, and plant surveys) with social science methodologies like landowner surveys and GIS analyses. Key research areas include:

• Grassland restoration in the Grand River Grasslands of Iowa/Missouri
• Human behavior in invasive species management
• LGBTQ+ inclusion in STEM fields

Coon emphasizes undergraduate student involvement in field research, leading to numerous peer-reviewed publications co-authored with students. She actively advocates for equitable, inclusive practices in ecology education and fieldwork, addressing barriers faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and minoritized groups. Her teaching philosophy centers on fostering student agency and environmental stewardship through place-based learning.

Professional memberships include the Society for Range Management, International Association for Society & Natural Resources, and American Ornithology. Current projects explore intersections of biodiversity conservation with social justice and cultural values.