Research Philosophy
My goal as a researcher is to improve our scientific understanding of both the social and ecological worlds and their complex interactions. I view my research through both my dedication to social justice and equity and my passion for conserving wildlife and nature.
I conduct my research with the understanding that all systems are coupled; they are both social and ecological. It is critical that we work towards a nuanced and holistic understanding of the dynamics within these coupled systems. My interest in coupled human-natural systems stems from my inherent love of nature and wildlife and my personal experiences as a member of a historically marginalized group. I began my graduate studies interested in environmental change and its impacts on wildlife ecology and conservation. That interest, while still a passion of mine, shifted in scope as I observed the often marginal and inequitable environments that people all over the world depend on. I now focus my research on understanding the complicated relationships between people and the natural resources on which we all rely. My specific research goals are 1) to conduct research that encourages sustainable livelihood strategies in the face of global climate and land-use change, 2) investigate the feedback between environmental change, wildlife ecology, and natural resource based livelihoods, and 3) expand our understanding of social-environmental systems through methodologies (such as remote sensing and agent-based modelling) that allow us to isolate patterns and processes that drive the dynamics of them. I am also interested in investigating environmental change from the perspective of those suffering due to a lack of inclusion and equality. This includes research within the fields of environmental justice, political ecology, and human geography. My specific research goal is to increase diversity in environmental planning, law, management, and research. As I continue this research and my career, I constantly seek out any opportunities to grow as a researcher and improve my ability to work toward equality, diversity, and inclusion. |