Current Students
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ANTHROPOLOGY
Emilie Springer: PhD, Anthropology
Email: esspringer@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2007
Thesis Title: “Transitions in Community. Fishing: Comparing the Diverse Perspectives and Knowledge Systems of Industry, Community Organizations, Management. Agencies and Academics”
Advisor: Maribeth Murray
Lisa Strecker: PhD, Anthropology
email: lstrecker@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2012
Advisor: Peter Schweitzer
Miranda Wright: PhD, Anthropology
Email: mwright2@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2007
Thesis Title: “How Is Leadership Operationalized in Indigenous Communities”
In many indigenous communities methods to maintain the socio-ecological balance are embedded in their social-linguistic cultural norms. My research explores and analyzes how leadership in indigenous communities addresses concerns for the ecosystem.
Advisor: Craig Gerlach
BIOLOGY AND WILDLIFE
Casey L. Brown: PhD, Biological Sciences
BA Environmental Studies, Prescot College, 2004; M.S. Ecology Colorado State University, 2010 American University; Environmental Policy, American University, 2001.
Email: caseylynnbrown@gmail.com
Entered Program: 2011
Advisor: Eugenie Euskirchen; Knut Klielland
La’ona DeWilde: PhD, Biological Sciences
Email: ldewilde2@alaska.edu
Corrie Knapp; PhD Interdisciplinary Studies
Email: corrieknapp@yahoo.com
Website: www.corrieknapp.com
BA Dual Degree in Literature and Writing, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, 1997-1999; MS Rangeland Ecosystem Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 2006-2008; IGERT in Sustainable Urban Infrastructure, Health and Behavioral Sciences, Urban Food System, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, 2008-2009.
Entered program: 2010
I am interested in the integration of local knowledge and formal science in community adaptation planning."
Advisor: Terry Chapin
Katie Villano Spellman: PhD, Biology
BS, Biology, Whitman College, 2003; MS Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2008
Email: kvillano@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2010
Thesis Title: Reciprocating Ecology and Education to Build Resilience to Non-Native Plant Invasions in Alaska
My research investigates the shifting interactions between native berry plants and pollinators as non-native plants are introduced to Alaska. I take an experimental approach to this ecological question, then use our experimental results combined with citizen science monitoring data throughout Alaska to model the potential changes in native and invasive plant interactions with pollinators in a changing climate. My research approach then uses our changing scientific understanding on these ecological interactions to test education theory on approaches to building resilience thinking capacity in K-12 classrooms.
Advisor: Christa Mulder
Allison Butler Woodward: PhD, Biological Sciences
B.S. Biology, University of Alaska, Anchorage, 1989; M.S. Biology, 1993; M.A. Teaching, Secondary Science, 1993
Entered Program: 2007
Thesis Title: “Sustainable Village Relocation”
I have established a collaboration with the people of Shishmaref, Alaska to develop a community-led village relocation plan to maximize the cultural, social, economic and ecological sustainability of the new community.
Advisor: Rich Boone
Betsy Young: Masters, Biology
BS, Environmental Science, Alaska Pacific University, 2003
Email: beyakk@yahoo.com
Entered Program: 2005
Rebecca Young: PhD, Biology
BS, Biology, University of Indianna, 2006
Email: rcyoung@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2008
Thesis Title: "Bering Sea Alcids: Patterns of senescence, life history traits, and local community value"
I am studying how aging processes and stresses affect reproductive strategies in seabirds at various colonies in the Bering Sea. In addition I am studying how various sub-Arctic communities utilize bird resources.
Advisor: Sasha Kitaysky
CROSS CULTURAL STUDIES
Matthew L. Springer: MS Cross Cultural Studies
Liberation Theology/ herbalism, Evergreen State College, 2002; Community Psychology/Sustainable Agriculture, Findhorn Foundation, 2003; BA International Political Economy/Social Justice, Colorado College, 2006; Spanish/Boreal Forest Ecology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2006
Email: aegolius@gmail.com
Entered Program: 2011
Advisor: Craig Gerlach
INDIGENOUS STUDIES
Judith D. Ramos: PhD Indigenous Studies
BA Anthropology, University of Alaska Anchorage, 1981; MA Teaching, Adult and Community Education, Alaska Pacific University 1985.
Email: daxootsu@hotmail.com
Entered Program: 2011
Advisor: Michael Koskey
INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
Hassab Ali: PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
Archana Bali: PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
M.Sc Wildlife Biology and Conservation, National Centre for Biological Sciences & Centre for Wildlife Studies, Bangalore, India, 2006
Email: archana.bali@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2007
Thesis Title: Effects of long-term climate on the Human-Caribou Systems in Alaska: Assessment of past, present and future.
My current research uses analysis of climate data for past decades to assess patterns and significance of on-going and potential future effects of climate change on the habitat of Alaskan barren ground caribou herds, and associated harvest systems. I am also working with the indigenous communities of the north who refer to themselves as "Caribou People" to make videographies about their way of life in wake of a rapidly changing world. This video project is an effort to document local observations of perceived changes about caribou as well as caribou hunting and uses, and concerns regarding their future.
Dixie Dayo: PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
BA 1994; MA, UAA College of Rural Development, 2004
Email: dmdayo@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2007
Thesis Title: “ Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act: an Act of Resilience, Adaptive Management and Sustainability”
Advisor: Gary Kofinas
Cindy Fabbri: PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
Email: cfabbri@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2008
Thesis Title: “Building Capacity: Watershed Science, Education and Adaptive Management of Resources”
My research focuses on the integration of science, education, and natural resource management as a mechanism to build capacity for adaptive management of watersheds.
Advisor: Elena Sparrow
Kevin Hillmer-Pegram: PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
Email: hillmerpegram@yahoo.com
BA Arisona State University, Religious Studies, 2004; MS Geography, The Pennsylvania State University, 2011.
Dissertation title: The working title of my thesis is Climate change impact on tourism in Alaska: A meeting of ecosystem services and human perceptions .
My research revolves around the topics of tourism and global change in Alaska and the Arctic. On the biophysical side, I am interested in assessing the impacts of climate change on the cryospheric ecosystem services that draw tourists to our state (e.g., glaciers, polar bears). On the social science side, I am investigating the phenomenon of last chance tourism to determine if it is occurring in Alaska. I hope that my research will contribute to sustainable tourism in the region.
Advisor: Amy Lovecraft
Eunkyoung Hong: PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
Email: ehong4@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2008
Dissertation Title: "Estimating damage costs for Alaska infrastructure at risk from climate change".
This study will focus on the estimation of additional costs caused by climate change in the field of public infrastructure. Also, through the regulatory(mitigation) scenario,this study will anticipate the costs we can avoid.
Advisor: Sarah Trainor
Yasmeen Hossain: PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
BA, Environmental Studies, Alliant International University, 2002: MSc, Environment & Development, London School of Economics, 2006
Email: yhossain@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2010
Dissertation title: Adapting to global change: the Economic, social and environmental dimensions of energy-efficient green homes in a subarctic climate
The objective of my research is to conduct an assessment of energy-efficient green buildings in a subarctic climate. Specifically, the research will determine the viability of energy-efficient green buildings in Alaska taking into consideration climate, material supply, social expertise, economic cost, payback period, environmental effects and social and cultural acceptability and demand. Through incorporating a cost-benefit analysis, t he research results will provide a tool for community members and policy makers alike to appraise one of the adaptation options to global change affecting the supply of fossil fuels and overall energy security.
Advisor: Philip Loring
Richard E. Hum: MS, interdisciplinary Studies
BS University of Earth Science, University of California at Santa Cruz, 1994
Email: Rhum@teachingwow.org
Entered Program: 2011
Advisor: Michael Koskey
Charles Jones, PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
AS, Sauk Valley College, Dixon, Ill. 1993; MS, Environmental Sciences and Policy, Northern Arizona University, 2003.
Email: chas@chasjones.com
Entered Program: 2009
Thesis Title: “Integrating Remote Sensing and Local Knowledge to Asses Hazardous River Conditions”
My research uses scientific collaborations and knowledge exchange to gain a comprehensive understanding of hazardous river conditions facing subsistence users in rural Alaskan communities. We are using remote sensing, field studies, and local knowledge to examine the seasonal nature of river conditions from freeze-up through break-up on the Tanana River. My integrated research on hazardous river conditions brings us closer to a comprehensive understanding of how global changes may impact Alaskan rivers and the rural residents that rely upon rivers for subsistence activities.
Advisor: Larry Hinzman
Kimberley Anne C. Maher: PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
B.S., Biology, Boston College, 1998; M.S., Natural Resources Management, UAF, 2005.
Email: k.maher@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2004
Thesis Title: “Harvest of Non-Timber Forest Product in Interior Alaska ”
Harvesting non-timber forest products (NTFPs) such as blueberries and firewood is an important activity in Interior Alaska. My research looks at the management and valuation (both qualitative and quantitative) of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) in the Tanana Valley.
Advisor: Glenn Juday
Joshua Ream, PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
BS, Animal Science, Penn State University, 2006; MS, Biology Austin Peay University, 2008.
Email: jtream@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2009
Thesis Title: "An Analysis of Traditional and Local herpetological Knowledge in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.
I am investigating the availability and extent of knowledge pertaining to amphibians and reptiles in culture and on the landscape while promoting public outreach and citizen science initiatives.
Advisor: Andres Lopez & Craig Gerlach
Eleanor Wirts: PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
B.S., Animal Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, 1998; ME, Secondary Education, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, 1999: MA, Northern Studies - University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, Alaska, 2010.
Email: ewirts@alaska.edu
Entered program: 2010
I am interested in studying the role of males in the changing north.
Advisor: Mary Ehrlander
Brian Young: PhD, Interdisciplinary Studies
M.S. Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2008; M.ED. Secondary Science, Colorado State University, 2000; B.S. Lewis and Clark College, 1996.
Email: bdyoung@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2008
Thesis Title: “Sustainable Forestry for the Interior of Alaska ”
I am investigating the effects of biodiversity and climate change on forest growth and yield, and the potential social economic and ecological impact of introducing major forest industries into Alaska.
Advisor: Jingjing Liang
NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
Tara Callear: MS Natural Resources Management
BA Environment, population and Organismic Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, 2001; Millersville University, 1994-97.
Email: taracallear@gmail.com
Entered Program: 2011
Advisor: Susan Todd
John Duffy, PhD Natural Resources Management
Email: jduffy@alaska.edu
BA Political Science, University of Alaska Anchorage, 1979; MS Urban Planning and Policy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1983; Certificate of Public performanceMeasurement, Unviersity of Illinois at Chicago, 1987; Non degree corusework, Rutgers University, 2006; Non degree coursework University of Alaska Anchroage, 2010.
Dissertation title: What variables foster the adoption and implementation of sustainable practices by local governments?
Local governments influence sustainability and the creation of resilient and adaptive communities through their planning responsibilities, building codes, and infrastructure investments. Yet most local governments are not actively and formally pursing sustainability. Casting more light on the variables that foster sustainability will enhance our understanding of how to foster sustainability at the local government level which may result in more widespread sustainable practices throughout our nation.
Entered program: 2011
Advisor: Sustan Todd
Rachel Garcia: MS, Natural Resources Management
BA, Russian Studies, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2007.
Email: rgarcia@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2010
I am interested in studying northern food systems and food security.
Advisor: Cary deWit
Marion Glaser: Masters, Natural Resources Management
Colorado College, BA, Biology, 2006
email: marionglaser@gmail.com
Thesis title: Calculating the carrying capacity of moose habitat on the Seward Ranger District, Chugach National Forest
Assessments of habitat quality are useful to agencies who have a responsibility to manage land and wildlife populations. To accomplish this, I am using remote sensing techniques to estimate cover of browse species, biomass estimates to determine food resources available in each cover class and nutritional analyses to determine the quality of browse species to moose.
Entered Program: 2009
Advisor: Don Spalinger
Gabriela Halas: MSc, Natural Resources Management
email: ghalas@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2012
Advisor: Gary Kofinas
Research subject: Caribou Traditional Knowledge - Western Arctic Herd
Winslow Hansen: MS, Natural Resources Management
BA Economics, University of Montana, 2010; BA Biology option in ecology, University of Montana, 2010
Email: whansen@@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2011
Advisor: Scott Rupp
Josephine-Mary Osafu-Adu Sam: PhD, Natural Resources Management
BA English/History, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, 2005; MS Natural Resources Management, 2011.
Email: josie.sam@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2009 (MS) 2011 (PhD)MS
Advisors: Susan Todd
Britta Schroeder: MS Natural Resources Management
BS Forestry Management, Colorado State University, 2004
Email: brittaschroeder@gmail.com
Entered Program: 2011
Advisor: David Verbyla
Nicole Swenson: MS, Natural Resources Management
B.A. Biology, emphasis in ecology, University of Montana, 2009.
Email: nyswenson@alaska.edu
Entered program: 2010
Thesis Title: "The Potential Effects of Climate Change on the Tanana Valley, AK Agriculture: An Investigation of Soil Degree-days, Crop Phenology and Economics".
Advisor: Scott Rupp and Milan Shipka
Becky Warren: PhD, Natural Resources Management
BS Political Science, Santa Clara University, 1998
Email: becky.warren@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2008
Thesis Title: “Responses to Rural Alaska Energy Crises: Opportunities to Build Cross-scale Resilience”
This investigation of community-level and cross-scale responses to energy issues in rural Alaska focuses on the capacity of these responses to build long-term resilience within rural Alaska communities. The analysis will focus on a handful of projects and policies and the processes by which these are developed. I seek a model for quantitative analysis of capacity building in rural Alaska.
Advisor: Josh Greenberg
NATURAL RESOURCES AND SUSTAINABILITY
Berill Blair: PhD Natural Resources and Sustainability
Entered Program: 2012
Advisor: Dr. Amy Lovecraft and Dr. Gary Kofinas
Merben Cebrian: PhD Natural Resources and Sustainability
BS Wildlife Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2001; MS Wildlife Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2005.
Email: merben_c@hotmail.com
Entered Program: 2011
Advisor: Chanda Meek, Peter Fix
Doug Cost: PhD, Natural Resources and Sustainability
BA Creative Writing, University of Southern California, 1995; MA Educational Administration, California State-Northridge, 2005; MFA Creative Writing, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2010.
Email: dscost@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2010
Thesis Title: Designing Adaptive Schools for Rural Northern Communities: A comparative study of secondary school systems in circumpolar social-ecological systems
Advisors: Elena Sparrow, Diane Hirshberg
Susan “Shana” Loshbaugh: PhD, Natural Resources and Sustainability
BA, Biology and Russian, Carleton College, 1976; M.S., Animal Science, University of Minnesota, 1981.
Email: sloshbau@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2005
Thesis Title: “The History of Land Use on Alaska's KenaiI River and Its Implications
For Sustaining Salmon”
I am using interdisciplinary environmental history, landscape science and technologies such as geographic information systems to describe the watershed’s land-use history and link land use and land cover to the sustainability of salmon runs.
Advisor: Susan Todd, Falk Huettman
Dominique Pride: PhD, Natural Resources and Sustainability
Email: djpride@alaska.edu
BBA Economics, Marshall University, 2007; MS Resource and Applied Economics, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2010.
Entered Program: 2011
Advisor: Joseph Little
Colette de Roo: PhD, Natural Resources and Sustainability
MSc Water Management, Delft University of Technology, Delft, Netherlands, 2002; Bachelor of Circumpolar Studies, Bodø University College, Norway, 2009; Exchange semester at Denmark’s Technical University, Lyngby, Denmark, 1999.
Email: cderoo@alaska.edu
Thesis Title: “Modeling Subsistence Trade-offs in a Rapidly Changing World”
I am studying the effects of different forces of change on subsistence harvesting systems. My objective is to model these systems and thus better understand the trade-offs associated with subsistence harvesting under rapidly changing conditions (climate change, fuel costs, etc.).
Advisor: Gary Kofinas
NORTHERN STUDIES
Kristin M.F. Timm: MS Northern Studies
BA Rural Development-Land Resources and Environmental Management, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2010; Natural REsources Mangements/Environmental Education, 2003, non-degree
Email: kmf.timm@gmail.com
Entered program: 2011
Advisor: Elena Sparrow
SCHOOL OF FISHERIES AND OCEAN SCIENCE
Bradford M. Marden: Masters, Oceanography
BA Biology, Dartmouth College, 2004
Email: Brad.m.marden@gmail.com
Entered program: 2009
Advisor: Brenda Norcross
Sue Hazlett: PhD, Biological Sciences
B.A., Business Management/Psychology, University of Maryland, 1985
Email: sdhazlett@alaska.edu
Entered Program: 2002
Thesis Title: "An Analysis of Two Spatially Explicit Models to Establish Marine Protected Areas Applied to Glacier Bay National Park and a Virtual Map”
I am examining the use of Marxan and ALCES for creating marine protected areas that are based on both socioeconomic inputs and environmental inputs.
Advisors: Alan Springer, Falk Huettman
Email: uaf-rap@alaska.edu Phone: 907-474-7987 PO Box 757000, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7000
