Julia Buck

Traditionally, parasites have been appreciated mainly for their direct negative effects on host fitness. However, parasites are increasingly recognized as integral members of ecological communities with the potential to alter dynamics at all levels of ecological organization. My research program in disease ecology explores the population-, community-, and ecosystem-level consequences of parasites in coastal systems. My research projects cut across taxonomic boundaries and employ empirical approaches, observational studies, and mathematical modeling. Although I seek to illuminate broadly-relevant ecological patterns, my research has management, conservation, and human health implications.