Michael E. Douglas        

Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS)

Institute of Natural Resource Sustainability

University of Illinois (Urbana/Champaign)

1816 South Oak Street

Champaign IL 61820

217-333-3685

e-mail: med at inhs.uiuc.edu

Affiliate Faculty in the following UI programs:

Program in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology (PEEC)

Department of Animal Biology (CLAS/ AB)

Natural Resources and Environmental Science (ACES/ NRES)

Research in the Douglas Lab focuses on 2 themes, one being the quantification of biodiversity at the population and species-level. Here, we utilize mitochondrial and nuclear DNAs to decipher the long, convoluted history of the North American biota, and to interpret the demographies of species as inferred from molecular characters. Most have had diversities and population densities greatly reduced, which leads us to the second major Lab theme: An emphasis on regional conservation and the use of molecular data in an adaptive management scenario. Here, we interact closely with applied conservation practitioners to ensure that our broad, multidisciplinary research reflects the best science available, and that our management recommendations are adaptive, relevant, and sustainable. As educators, we transect multiple disciplines and embrace cutting-edge technologies as a means of instructing a new generation of scientist in the theories and methods of biodiversity recognition, definition, and restoration. We are committed to these goals and believe our stewardship cannot help but motivate students, colleagues and cooperators as we move into an uncertain future.

Click on lower left & "Current Research" pics (right column) to view PDFs of research and descriptions of selected ongoing projects.  More detailed information is available by clicking on names of individuals.