Joel Elliott

Joel Elliott is a Professor of Biology at the University of Puget Sound, specializing in marine ecology and evolutionary biology. His research examines predator-prey interactions, symbiotic relationships, and environmental impacts on aquatic organisms. He leads studies on sea star wasting disease, introduced mussel species' effects on Puget Sound ecosystems, and microbial communities in sulfide-rich environments. Elliott teaches courses in marine biology and ecological diversity.

Education:

• BS in Biology, University of Alberta, 1983
• MS in Biology, University of Alberta, 1987
• PhD in Biology, Florida State University, 1992

Research Interests: Focuses on Mytilus species competition, microbial symbionts in eelgrass, and the ecological consequences of environmental pollutants. Uses field and lab methods including GIS mapping, molecular techniques (DNA barcoding, qPCR), and microscopy to study intertidal communities and microbial biodiversity.

Recent Research Trends: Articles analyze sea star population dynamics under disease pressures, mussel hybridization patterns, and microbial influences on eelgrass health. Collaborates with microbiologists to characterize sulfide-seep microbial communities resembling deep-sea hydrothermal vent ecosystems.

Advising & Grants: Advised over 20 students on projects involving invasive species, eelgrass restoration, and microbial ecology. Collaborations include work with Professors Mark Martin and Peter Wimberger on Puget Sound ecosystems.

Labs/Teams: Maintains a lab in Thompson 213 focused on marine organism interactions and environmental monitoring. Engages students in fieldwork across Puget Sound, including Commencement Bay and the San Juan Islands.