Boston, MA — The Institute for Plant-Human Interface (IPHI) is proud to announce that Dr. Gabriela Garcia, an Assistant Professor of Marine and Environmental Sciences and Public Policy at Northeastern University and a member of IPHI, has been selected as one of the four recipients of the 2025 Excellence in Ecology (EEE) Scholar by the Ecological Society of America (ESA). This prestigious scholarship recognizes outstanding early- to mid-career ecologists from groups traditionally underrepresented in the scientific community.
Dr. Garcia’s research explores the intricate relationships between human societies and ecosystems. Focusing on smallholder agriculture, her work addresses critical issues such as biodiversity loss, food security, and climate change. By examining how human interactions influence ecosystem functions and vice versa, Dr. Garcia aims to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices and socio-ecological resilience.
“Dr. Garcia’s innovative research at the intersection of plant and human systems exemplifies the mission of IPHI,” said Jing-Ke Weng, Director of IPHI. “Her selection as an ESA EEE Scholar is a testament to her dedication and impactful contributions to the field of ecology.”
As an EEE Scholar, Dr. Garcia will receive a $5,000 award over two years, supporting her participation in ESA events, research endeavors, and outreach activities. This honor not only acknowledges her scientific achievements but also her commitment to fostering community engagement within the ecological sciences.
IPHI extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Garcia on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to her continued contributions to advancing our understanding of plant-human interactions.
For more information about Dr. Gabriela Garcia’s work, please visit her lab website.
IPHI is dedicated to advancing research and fostering collaboration at the nexus of plant and human systems, promoting sustainable and resilient ecosystems.
News source: Alison Mize (alison@esa.org), ESA