Our primary research interests include theoretical and spatial ecology with an emphasis on the dynamics, management, and conservation of aquatic ecosystems.
Our research examines population and community dynamics in the context of spatial heterogeneity, anthropogenic threats, and environmental regulations. We take an interdisciplinary approach to examining the effectiveness of fisheries management and policy measures including marine protected areas, as part of a larger objective to understand the potential ecological and socioeconomic benefits and tradeoffs of various conservation efforts. We use a variety of modeling techniques in mathematical and spatial ecology and bioeconomics to assess trophic relationships and environmental management strategies in order to better understand the underlying mechanisms influencing biotic response in aquatic ecosystems. We regularly collaborate with field ecologists to examine the processes driving empirical patterns, and facilitate hypothesis generation which can then be tested in the field.
