Nalini Nadkarni--Branching Out: Exploring the Tapestry of the Forest Canopy

Nalini Nadkarni, Ecologist

Nadkarni is the third speaker in our 2021 Lecture Series: Trailblazing Women in Science. These are free but registration is required at https://nhmu.utah.edu/lectureseries

Known as the “Queen of the Forest Canopy,” Nadkarni describes her pioneering research on the biota that live in the treetops of tropical rainforests. Using mountain-climbing gear to climb tall tropical trees, she has shown that the diverse plants and animals who live aloft play critical roles in ecosystem processes.

But these organisms are vulnerable to the negative effects of human activities, such as deforestation and climate change. Her response has been to raise awareness of the need to protect forests by incorporating the insights of people in sectors that lie far outside of academic science. She has partnered with faith-based groups, artists, rap singers, corporations, and people who are incarcerated to weave their values into the tapestry of protection of nature on our planet.

Dr. Nadkarni also reflects on the supports and challenges that she has encountered in integrating research and communication activities in an academic career.

Be sure to register at https://nhmu.utah.edu/lectureseries