About Ecology and Conservation Biology
Department Overview
The faculty, staff, and students in the Texas A&M University Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology (ECCB) conduct research that advances biological discovery, fundamental ecological knowledge, and their applications to promote biodiversity conservation, environmental health, and natural resource sustainability. Our research addresses diverse aspects of ecology from genes to ecosystems and settings from local to global. The department’s 34 full-time faculty members prepare students to be accomplished scientists and conservationists capable of working collaboratively to solve complex environmental problems in a rapidly changing world. Most ECCB graduates advance to graduate study or other professional programs and ultimately to careers in science, animal health, biological conservation, environmental assessment, ecological restoration and other fields critical for a sustainable future.
Howdy and Welcome!
The Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology engages in interdisciplinary research spanning the entire spectrum of ecological levels, from the smallest genetic components to entire ecosystems. Through these efforts, our students, staff, and faculty are dedicated to safeguarding biodiversity, sustaining essential ecosystem services, and preserving our precious natural resources in a changing world.
I want to convey the collective excitement that my colleagues and I feel about this fresh chapter for our department. We’re a team with a shared commitment to teaching, research, and serving our professional communities and society at large.
With this vision, the Department of Ecology and Conservation seeks to lead in discovering, disseminating, and applying knowledge about life on Earth and how to safeguard it. By lead, we mean:
• Educating students of diverse backgrounds who rise to leadership positions in civil service, education, government, and industry.
• Pioneering interdisciplinary and technologically advanced research that has a global impact and is readily accessible.
• Fostering an academic culture that values diverse perspectives, talents, and identities and strengthens Texas A&M University’s core values: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity and Selfless Service.
• Preparing students for a lifetime of thoughtful engagement with public issues that intersect science, technology, and society.
Please explore our website and delve into our educational programs, the remarkable individuals who form our community, and the numerous opportunities to participate in research and outreach for conservation. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you seek further information. Your interest and involvement mean the world to us.
We encourage you to explore our website and learn more about our educational programs, people, and exciting opportunities to engage in research and conservation outreach. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
Dr. Katy Gonder
Department Head
Mission
The Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology conducts interdisciplinary research across all levels of biodiversity, from genes to ecosystems, to confront the grand challenge of conserving natural resources in a rapidly changing world. This research is integrated with undergraduate and graduate teaching programs to prepare the next generation of leaders in conservation science
Vision
We strive for preeminence among academic programs in ecology and conservation biology. Our faculty is dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary research and teaching, informing conservation and management solutions, and preparing students as future leaders who will solve complex environmental problems in Texas and across the world.
Looking to the Future
We are extremely optimistic about our future direction and purpose. We have developed a new, bold strategic plan and are committed to being the global flagship department in preparing the best leaders, educators, and communicators in the world. We will accomplish this by ensuring a high-quality curriculum, mentoring students, delivering the best Extension programming, developing adult leaders, working with global partners for the co-creation of knowledge and the development of human capacity, and generating scholarship with societal impact.
Department Newsletter
The Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology newsletter provides a means for everyone to know people in our department better and stay informed about recent events and accomplishments, as well as upcoming events and opportunities.
Ecology and Conservation Biology News
Research reveals older animals’ role in species survival
A collaborative study involving Kirk Winemiller, Ph.D., University Distinguished Professor in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, highlights the important roles older animals play in their populations and the ecological ripple effects of their loss.
The paper, “Loss of Earth’s old, wise and large animals,” published in Science, examines how older animals contribute to survival knowledge, reproduction, offspring survival and stability of social structures.
Five ways to prevent negative encounters with snakes this spring
Springtime in Texas brings warmer temperatures, blooming wildflowers — and more active snakes. As these reptiles emerge, the chances of encountering them increase. However, understanding snake behaviors and basic safety tips can help prevent unnecessary fear and reduce the risk of a bite.
“The best way to avoid snake bites is to be aware of your surroundings and recognize the scenarios that lead to them,” said Toby Hibbitts, Ph.D., instructional assistant professor in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology. “If you spot one, the best thing to do is leave it alone and let it go its way.”
Texas A&M rangeland science expert Kreuter retires
After almost four decades of rangeland and ecosystem management research and teaching, Urs Kreuter, Ph.D., the Joan Negley Kelleher professor in the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, retired on March 31.
Kreuter’s career has shaped the field of rangeland stewardship, bridging gaps between ecology, economics and social sciences to provide practical solutions for landowners, producers and policymakers.
Celebrating 49 years of dedication
This year, the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology celebrates an extraordinary milestone: William Grant, Ph.D., has completed 49 years of remarkable service at Texas A&M University.
Since 1976, Grant has made invaluable contributions to ecological research, education and mentorship, leaving an enduring impact on the department, the university and the scientific community at large.
Rogers named associate department head
On April 1, William Rogers, Ph.D., was named associate department head for graduate and undergraduate programs in the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology.
Rogers has been a faculty member at Texas A&M since 2005. In his expanded role, he will continue supporting student success and improving the educational experience available in the department.