Welcome to the Silliman Lab

In our lab, we: 1) study how species interactions (e.g., trophic cascades, mutualisms) and physical drivers (e.g., climate change, nutrient enrichment) interact to regulate biodiversity and ecosystem structure and function, 2) develop a predictive understanding of when and where species interactions are important, and 3) integrate our novel theoretical and system-specific findings into conservation and ecosystem restoration to advance outcome success. We test our research questions with multi-factorial, field experiments and complement that approach with modeling, meta-analysis, and/or observational approaches to provide robust evaluation of generality of species-interaction effects across space, time and physical gradients. We work in salt marshes, seagrasses, oyster reefs, coastal forests, and coral reef systems, and are equally drawn to work with plants, microbes, invertebrates, fish, and reptiles, although snails, alligators and sea otters could be favorites.

We are committed to inclusivity, equity and excellence in science; we develop use-inspired and place-based conservation solutions to help both humans and nature. We believe that diversity of life experience and thought is essential for our collective success. Our overarching goal is to advance the understanding of ecosystems and inform and inspire effective solutions for their preservation and restoration.