About Ecology and Conservation Biology
Department Overview
The faculty, staff, and students in the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology conducts 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 31 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!
Howdy and Welcome to ECCB.
It is my honor to introduce you to the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, a new unit in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences established in January 2020 through a restructuring of the former departments of Ecosystem Science and Management (ESSM) and Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences (WFSC).
We aim to conduct interdisciplinary research across all ecological levels, from genes to ecosystems, to conserve biodiversity and natural resources in our rapidly changing world. I believe I speak for all my colleagues when I say that I am extremely excited about our new department and the outstanding people who have joined together to advance shared interests in teaching, research and professional service.
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. Kirk Winemiller
Interim 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 that 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 be 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
Using the past to guide future of conservation
Deep dives into the ecological and biological past could provide direction for the future of conservation.
First-generation student advocates globally for women in science
As a first-generation college student, Yasmin Quintana never imagined pursuing a career in fish ecology. For girls in her home country of Guatemala, becoming a scientist was not generally encouraged.