The Ecological Society of America (ESA) proudly announces the recipients of the prestigious 2025 Katherine S. McCarter Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA), recognizing ten exemplary graduate students who are ardently engaged in advocacy with a keen interest in the nexus of science and policy. This cohort will embark on a transformative journey to Washington, D.C., where they will receive essential training in policy, communication, and career development, culminating in impactful meetings with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
This initiative is pivotal in bridging the gap between scientific research and legislative action. ESA President Stephanie Hampton commended these ten scholars, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring that ecological science influences solutions to contemporary challenges. The GSPA aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders in ecological science who will advocate for evidence-based environmental policy.
Among the awardees is Claire Bandet from the University of Pennsylvania, whose research delves into the intricate dynamics of arctic ecosystems, specifically the interactions between reindeer, birds, and insects in herbivory. Bandet is not only dedicated to her research but has also taken significant steps to promote interdisciplinary collaboration, founding an environmental humanities discussion group and staging workshops on ecological grief. Her experience at COP16 on Biological Diversity illustrates her proactive approach to engaging with global environmental issues.
Sarah A. Cuprewich from Dartmouth College is another remarkable recipient. As a Ph.D. candidate in the Ecology, Evolution, Environment, and Society Graduate Program, Cuprewich’s investigations into soil fungi highlight their vital role in ecosystem functions. This research, alongside her commitment to inclusivity and diversity in scientific research, reflects a growing awareness of the importance of ethical practices within the ecological community.
The award also recognizes Chichedo I. Duru, a Ph.D. candidate at Morgan State University, whose work focuses on water quality management and ecosystem restoration. Duru’s research deals with contaminants like PFAS and microplastics, utilizing innovative techniques such as remote sensing and GIS to assess the impacts of land use on pollutant movements. This endeavor is crucial in developing strategies for environmental sustainability and biodiversity protection in aquatic ecosystems.
Another notable recipient, Raymond Erskine from Clemson University, is investigating tree physiological responses to drought stress. His work seeks to elucidate the transitions occurring in forests of the Southern Appalachian region, particularly in relation to climate change and fire dynamics. As a first-generation scientist, Erskine’s commitment to enhancing diversity in STEM and mentoring students from underrepresented communities underscores the importance of representation in scientific fields.
Olufemi E. Fatunsin’s research at Alabama A&M University emphasizes the ecological modeling of forest diversity and environmental resilience. His work aims to develop effective strategies to ensure forest health amidst changing environmental conditions, exemplifying the role of research in informing practical solutions for conservation efforts in Southeastern U.S. forests.
Pa-Shun Hawkins, a Ph.D. student at UCLA, reflects the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary ecological research by examining the interplay of social inequality and environmental degradation. Her innovative use of environmental DNA to explore human impacts on ecosystems showcases the integration of ecological and social sciences to address complex environmental challenges, a rising trend in ecological study.
Katherina Autumn Kang, studying at the University of Delaware, focuses her research on the management of urban forests to enhance carbon storage and mitigate nitrogen pollution. Her work is pivotal in addressing urban environmental challenges as cities struggle to balance development and ecological health.
Eva Legge from Syracuse University brings a unique perspective by bridging fundamental research on fungi relationships with practical forest management strategies. Her role as a science communicator illustrates the necessity of translating complex scientific findings into actionable insights for the public, landowners, and policymakers.
Advyth Ramachandran, studying ecology at the University of Colorado Boulder, investigates the relationship between plant communities and ecosystem processes, emphasizing the importance of ecological theory in land restoration efforts. His work holds promise for informing best practices in managing ecosystems in light of increasing urbanization and climate-related challenges.
Lastly, Alison J. Robey from Yale University integrates theoretical models into her research on organism responses to varying temperatures. Her focus on mathematical modeling not only contributes to the ecological understanding of species’ extinction risks but also paves the way for the development of effective conservation policies, further corroborating the vital link between research and policy.
These ten recipients of the 2025 GSPA embody the essential qualities required to navigate the challenges at the intersection of science and policy. Through their dedication, they will contribute to a future where ecological science significantly informs decision-making processes, ultimately leading to more sustainable solutions in tackling pressing environmental issues.
Subject of Research: 2025 Graduate Student Policy Award Recipients
Article Title: Recognizing the Future Leaders in Ecological Science
News Publication Date: [Insert Date]
Web References: [Insert Links]
References: [Insert References]
Image Credits: Ecological Society of America
Keywords: Ecology, Science policy, Public policy, Graduate education
