College of Science
Oregon State University 

Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology are exceptional strengths at Oregon State University and have been ranked 11^th in the nation by a survey appearing in the Bulletin of the Ecological Society of America.  The College of Science has a large and active group of ecologists and evolutionary and conservation biologists in several Departments (Zoology, Botany and Plant Pathology, Geosciences), whose research collectively spans a broad range of levels of organization (molecules to ecosystems), habitats (marine, freshwater, terrestrial), and organisms (invertebrates, vertebrates, algae and plants).

Focal systems for research include rocky intertidal and adjacent coastal marine ecosystems, salt marshes, coastal dunes, coral reefs, ponds and lakes, streams, grasslands, old-growth and managed forests, chaparral systems, rangelands, and insect-plant systems.  The diverse and relatively unspoiled habitats of Oregon provide opportunities for much of this research.  In addition, many research programs incorporate a broader geographic element, for example, a regional focus (e.g., West coast of North America) or international settings (e.g., the Bahamas, New Zealand, Central and South America, South Africa).

Particular strengths and cross-cutting themes of the group include Conservation Biology, with active programs on the ecology of invasive species, population declines and extinctions, restoration ecology, marine reserves, and environmental policy, and Biodiversity.  The links below provide entrée into the faculty and programs in each area.  Click on faculty names for information on the activities currently underway for each, a list of recent publications, and to visit their respective websites.

Research Areas