Sally Otto

Sally Otto is a Professor in the Department of Zoology at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and a core member of the Biodiversity Research Centre. She is renowned for her foundational work in theoretical evolutionary biology, particularly in population genetics and the evolution of sexual reproduction. Her research integrates mathematical models and statistical tools to elucidate evolutionary processes shaping biodiversity. Dr. Otto co-leads the B.C. COVID-19 Modelling Group, contributing to pandemic response strategies through interdisciplinary rapid-response modelling.

Her academic accolades include the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship (2011) and recent election as a Fellow of the Royal Society UK (2024). She authored the seminal textbook *A Biologist's Guide to Mathematical Modeling in Ecology and Evolution*, which remains a standard reference. Dr. Otto’s work has been cited over 25,000 times, reflecting her profound influence on evolutionary theory and applied public health research.

Key contributions include advancing mathematical frameworks for sexual reproduction evolution and bridging theoretical models with empirical data. Her interdisciplinary approach addresses global challenges, from biodiversity conservation to pandemic management.