Colin Orians
Research/Areas of Interest
Agroecology, climate change, climate adaptation, plant-herbivore interactions
Education
- PhD, Entomology, Pennsylvania State University, State College, United States, 1990
- BA, Biology, Earlham College, Richmond, United States, 1984
Biography
I am interested in Global Change Biology, with particular emphasis on climate change, invasive species, and sustainability of natural and agricultural ecosystems. As a research group, we have worked in diverse systems including but not limited to coffee agroecosystems, tea responses to climate, invasive species impacts on hemlock growth and survival, plant defense strategies, and urban green roofs. For example, we are currently studying the effects of light and herbivores on the performance of sugar maple seedlings. By integrating physiological, chemical, isotope techniques and theory, we strive to elucidate patterns, identify mechanisms, and anticipate future threats.