Ecological Sciences

Ecological Sciences (ES) is a multi-disciplinary collective of over 65 researchers with a unique breadth of scientific expertise, skills and knowledge in the ecology, physiology and systematics of microbes, lichens, fungi, plants, soils, and invertebrates. Our collective expertise and knowledge is deployed globally across a range of systems. Our dynamic department maintains a large post-graduate student cohort affiliated with universities around the world.

Our science tackles spatial scales from soil microbial gene expression to biodiversity and landscape ecology and systems science. Our research aims to improve the management, conservation and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems in managed and native habitats around the world. Our outreach engages with land managers, businesses, advisors and Governments in Scotland, across Europe, Africa, South America and Asia as well as international bodies including UNEP, UN-FAO and IPCC.

One of our big challenges is the integration of ecological and biological knowledge into decision-making around the joint nature and biodiversity crisis, balancing the sustainable use of natural capital and with societal demands for food, water and energy. To do this, we work closely with social scientists, economists and other natural scientists within the Hutton and beyond on sustainable management of ecosystems, biodiversity and ecosystem services and the value of biodiversity and ecosystems to society.

To find out more about us, use the page links attached to images and text below:

For further information about the group please contact the Ecological Sciences Department Head: Rob Brooker [5] (email [6])