Who we are and what we do
The Heffernan Lab is a group of ecologists and environmental scientists with a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and interests. Fundamentally, our research group is committed to the process of discovery about the natural world (including its human denizens) through scientific inquiry. More specifically, most of our work is focused on two general questions:
1. How do major changes in environmental drivers influence ecosystem structure?
2. To what extent do internal ecosystem processes modulate those responses and feed back on drivers?
As noted elsewhere, most of this work addresses the structure and function of streams, wetlands, and other ecosystems shaped by the flow of water. However, we are always looking for new opportunities, questions, and conundrums; if those lead us out of the water and onto dry land (or under ground or out to sea), then so be it. For the most part, our work is motivated by basic questions about ecological systems, but always with an eye towards the needs of environmental managers and policy makers. We try really hard not to be limited to particular perspectives, scales, or approaches, and try even harder to relish the opportunity to learn new things about the world.
Find out more about the lab members, our projects and ideas, and our study systems. Interested in joining us? Learn more here.
1. How do major changes in environmental drivers influence ecosystem structure?
2. To what extent do internal ecosystem processes modulate those responses and feed back on drivers?
As noted elsewhere, most of this work addresses the structure and function of streams, wetlands, and other ecosystems shaped by the flow of water. However, we are always looking for new opportunities, questions, and conundrums; if those lead us out of the water and onto dry land (or under ground or out to sea), then so be it. For the most part, our work is motivated by basic questions about ecological systems, but always with an eye towards the needs of environmental managers and policy makers. We try really hard not to be limited to particular perspectives, scales, or approaches, and try even harder to relish the opportunity to learn new things about the world.
Find out more about the lab members, our projects and ideas, and our study systems. Interested in joining us? Learn more here.