Karen Joan Esler

Distinguished Professor of Conservation Ecology, Stellenbosch University

Trained as a plant ecologist, I have a natural instinct for interaction, and a deep appreciation of the benefits provided by diversity, both natural and social. I have been a core team member of the Centre for Invasion Biology since its inception, and have worked with economists, sociologists and modelers to understand questions of environmental sustainability. A central theme in my research is ecological restoration, an activity seeking to repair degraded, damaged or altered ecosystems. Another theme of my collaborative research has been the impact of invasive plants, both negative and positive.

Experience

–present

Professor of Conservation Ecology and Heead of the Department of Conservation Ecology & Entomology at Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch University

Education

1993

University of Cape Town, PhD / Plant Ecology

Grants and Contracts

2014

Role:

Professor of Conservation Ecology and Head of the Department of Conservation Ecology & Entomology at Stellenbosch University

Funding Source:

National Research Foundation