About Us
We’re a multidisciplinary hub dedicated to understanding and protecting our natural world through innovative environmental and forestry research. Whether it’s restoring forest ecosystems, monitoring biodiversity, or designing nature-based climate solutions, our work is driven by curiosity, collaboration, and a deep respect for the planet. Get to know who we are, what we stand for, and how we’re making a difference—one ecosystem at a time.
Our Story
Founded in 2010, the EcoSphere Research Center was established to advance environmental science and promote sustainable stewardship of our planet’s natural resources. With a focus on rigorous, interdisciplinary research, we address urgent ecological challenges-from deforestation and habitat loss to climate change and biodiversity decline. What began as a small, field-based research initiative has evolved into a nationally recognized center with active collaborations across academia, government, and civil society.
Our Vision
To be a global leader in environmental and forestry research, empowering communities and policymakers with the scientific insight needed to protect ecosystems, mitigate climate impacts, and restore natural habitats for future generations.
Our Core Values
Scientific Integrity
Uncompromising commitment to evidence-based research.
Sustainability
Long-term ecological thinking in all that we do.
Collaboration
Engaging partners locally and globally for collective impact.
Innovation
Leveraging technology and new methods for better outcomes.
Education & Outreach
Sharing knowledge to inspire stewardship.
Leadership Team
Dr. Julian Mercer – Chief Research Officer
A leading voice in forest restoration and ecological policy, Dr. Mercer sets the scientific direction for EcoSphere’s multidisciplinary research agenda.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Environmental Science – University of British Columbia
- M.Sc. in Forestry – University of Vermont
Career Highlights:
- Served as Senior Advisor at the Global Forest Conservation Council, where he led the development of international reforestation frameworks adopted in over a dozen countries.
- Co-authored two benchmark reports for the UN Environment Programme on climate-resilient forest systems.
- Developed an ecosystem monitoring protocol now used by five North American national parks.
- Recipient of the 2021 Global Ecology Award for Outstanding Contributions to Forest Research.
- Lectured at leading universities and delivered keynote addresses at over 20 international environmental conferences.
Dr. Rajiv Nandini – Director of Climate Research
Dr. Nandini leads the Center’s climate adaptation and carbon modeling initiatives, with a focus on environmental systems and policy-relevant science.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Environmental Systems – University of Michigan
Career Highlights:
- Contributed to multiple IPCC Working Group reports, helping refine climate impact assessments for coastal and forested regions.
- Led a five-year NSF-funded project on climate resilience in rural ecosystems, integrating traditional knowledge into predictive models.
- Advised the Ministry of Environment in India on integrating climate data into national infrastructure planning.
- Published over 25 peer-reviewed papers on climate adaptation, carbon flux, and land use systems.
Emily Chen – Director of Outreach & Partnerships
Emily oversees EcoSphere’s stakeholder engagement strategy, building bridges between research, community organizations, and policy networks.
Education:
- M.P.A. in Environmental Policy – Harvard Kennedy School
Career Highlights:
- Directed GreenRoots Collaborative’s national campaign on urban greening and environmental justice, reaching over 200,000 community members.
- Facilitated over 40 public-private partnerships for environmental education and local stewardship programs.
- Served as a liaison to the U.S. EPA’s Environmental Justice Advisory Council.
- Designed and implemented the “Voices for the Forest” public awareness campaign, which was recognized by the American Conservation Alliance.
- Frequent speaker at climate justice and environmental education forums.
Marcus Bell – Director of Field Operations
Marcus leads EcoSphere’s on-the-ground research operations, coordinating field teams and ecological monitoring across multiple regions.
Education:
- B.Sc. in Natural Resource Management – Oregon State University
Career Highlights:
- Managed biodiversity field programs in over 12 countries, including Brazil, Indonesia, and Kenya.
- Developed mobile biodiversity tracking kits that have been adopted by international conservation NGOs.
- Led the ecological recovery assessment after the 2020 Cascadia wildfire complex.
- Trained more than 300 field technicians in sustainable sampling and data collection methodologies.
- Frequently consults on protected area design and species monitoring strategies for national governments and conservation agencies.
Organizational Structure
The EcoSphere Research Center operates through a collaborative framework that integrates scientific research, fieldwork, policy engagement, and public education. Each division supports our mission by focusing on a specific area of environmental inquiry and community impact:
Executive Office
Oversees strategic leadership and institutional development.
Division of Forestry & Ecosystem Science
Focuses on forest dynamics, restoration, and sustainable land management.
Division of Climate & Environmental Modeling
Conducts climate forecasting, carbon analysis, and ecological impact simulations.
Division of Biodiversity & Wildlife Research
Studies species conservation, habitat integrity, and ecosystem health.
Public Engagement & Policy Affairs
Translates scientific findings into actionable policies and public-facing initiatives.
Education, Training, and Outreach Division
Builds environmental literacy through educational programs, workshops, and partnerships.
