Robert & Patricia Switzer Foundation

Fellowship Year: 2011

Academic Background: UC Santa Cruz - Ph.D. - (Ecology and Evolutionary Biology)

Erin is a Ph.D. candidate in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of California Santa Cruz. She studies the planning, implementation, and impact of global biodiversity conservation projects, with the goal of improving project effectiveness to make the best use of limited conservation resources. Currently, Erin is working on a global prioritization of islands for the eradication of introduced mammals and subsequent restoration of native island species and ecosystems. By integrating diverse factors such as biodiversity, economics, and politics into conservation decision making, she aims to improve conservation benefits for the many unique island species that are at risk of extinction. Prior to beginning her graduate studies, Erin spent three years at the American Museum of Natural History’s Center for Biodiversity and Conservation (CBC), where she worked on conservation-themed exhibits and symposia, developed materials for international conservation education initiatives, and researched threatened species and ecosystems for several of the CBC’s international programs. Erin earned a bachelor’s degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Yale University and has studied ecology and conservation in the Appalachian Mountains, Hawaii, Alaska, Central America, Asia, and the tropical Pacific. Upon completion of her Ph.D., she plans to continue her work on integrating the biological and human aspects of conservation to ensure the best possible outcomes for both threatened wildlife and people.

Expertise: Conservation Science & Biology