Katharyn Boyer

Katharyn Boyer is a Professor of Biology at San Francisco State University and the Interim Executive Director of the Estuary & Ocean Science (EOS) Center in Tiburon, California. Her research is centered on the restoration and conservation of coastal ecosystems, with a focus on salt marshes, seagrass beds, and oyster reefs. She leads a dynamic lab that integrates experimental ecology with climate change adaptation strategies, particularly through living shorelines and nature-based solutions.

• University: San Francisco State University
• School: College of Science and Engineering
• Department: Department of Biology
• Position: Professor
• Leadership: Interim Executive Director, EOS Center

Education:

• BS in Zoology, University of Maryland, College Park
• MS in Biology, San Diego State University
• PhD in Biology, UCLA
• Postdoctoral Training, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Dr. Boyer's research focuses on species interactions, ecosystem processes, and the restoration of foundational coastal habitats. She investigates how environmental stressors like ocean acidification, invasive species, and sea-level rise impact habitat resilience. Her work spans field, greenhouse, and mesocosm experiments, with a strong emphasis on informing conservation and management practices.

Her recent publications highlight trends in restoration ecology, climate adaptation, and ecosystem service recovery. Key themes include seagrass restoration, living shorelines, blue carbon, and the ecological impacts of invasive species. Her interdisciplinary approach often involves collaboration with agencies, communities, and multi-institutional teams.

Scientific Awards:

• Fellow of the California Academy of Sciences
• Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation William A. Niering Outstanding Educator Award
• San Francisco State University Distinguished Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching

Dr. Boyer is actively involved in mentoring graduate students and leads numerous research projects funded by federal and state agencies. She has advised over 20 master’s students, many of whose theses focus on restoration techniques, species interactions, and climate resilience. Her lab operates at the EOS Center, where she oversees a team of graduate students, research technicians, and undergraduates working on applied coastal ecology.

Labs and Teams: The Boyer Lab is based at the Estuary & Ocean Science Center, utilizing flow-through baywater systems and outdoor mesocosms. The lab conducts research on eelgrass, native oysters, invasive species, and rare plants, contributing to regional and global efforts in coastal resilience.