معرفی
Robert Andrus is an Adjunct Professor in the School of the Environment at Washington State University. His research focuses on disturbance ecology, climate impacts on forest ecosystems, and drought effects on tree demography. He employs field surveys, tree-ring analysis, remote sensing, and spatial modeling to study forest recovery post-disturbances such as wildfires and bark beetle outbreaks. Andrus holds a Ph.D. in Ecology from the University of Colorado, Boulder (2014), an M.S. in Ecology from the same institution (2010), and a B.A. in Environmental Studies from Willamette University (2008).
Education
- Ph.D., Ecology, University of Colorado – Boulder, 2014
- M.S., Ecology, University of Colorado – Boulder, 2010
- B.A., Environmental Studies, Willamette University, 2008
Research Interests
Andrus investigates forest responses to climate-driven disturbances, including drought, fire, and pest outbreaks. His work emphasizes understanding how forests recover from large-scale disturbances and adapt to changing climatic conditions. Key themes include:
- Mechanisms driving tree mortality and regeneration
- Role of microclimatic refugia (e.g., springs) in post-fire recovery
- Applications of remote sensing to monitor forest health and disturbance dynamics
- Climate-pest interaction effects on forest resilience
Publications Trends
Recent work highlights studies on post-fire tree regeneration patterns, bark beetle outbreak dynamics, and the impact of summer drought on tree physiology. Andrus’ research frequently integrates spatial and temporal scales to assess ecosystem resilience, with a focus on western North American forests.
Advising & Grants
No formal advisees listed. Grant activities are not explicitly detailed in provided materials. Active collaborations include projects with the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) and U.S. Forest Service.
Labs/Teams
Affiliated with interdisciplinary teams at WSU’s School of the Environment and collaborates with institutions such as the U.S. Geological Survey and National Park Service.
