Research teams focus on two cross-cutting themes:
A. Ecological Functions and Biodiversity
Research in Ecological Functions and Biodiversity is aimed at the following types of questions:
- What local and historical processes determine presence and distribution of biodiversity?
- How are ecological functions altered by what people do?
- How does society decide which biodiversity to protect? Once priorities are set, how are ecological functions maintained and secured?
B. Communities and Governance
Research in Communities and Governance addresses the following types of questions:
- How do political, economic, and historical relations of power and inequality at different scales explain uses and values of biodiversity?
- How do institutional and organizational arrangements affect access, use, and protection of biodiversity?
- Under what conditions can adding economic value to biodiversity create incentives for conservation (e.g., ecotourism or sustainable use of wildlife and fisheries)?
Research Integration
The research integration matrix below shows the breadth and diversity of research approaches among faculty. Research approaches in the Major Research Themes (columns) are applied to causes and consequences of biodiversity loss (rows). The shaded boxes highlight our strengths in assembling complementary teams of scholars. Empty boxes highlight critical areas for more ABS research among student/advisor teams.
