Sierra Lauman

Sierra is a doctoral student in the School of Natural Resources and the Environment. She earned a BS in Environmental Biology and a MS in Biology at California State Polytechnic University. Her research focused on utilizing plant functional-trait based approaches to restoration in invaded habitats. This focus led her to participate in post-fire restoration efforts in Southern California as well as a large scale restoration project set in a montane rain forest in Hawai'i. She plans to build upon this research at the UA by focusing on the mechanisms contributing to species coexistence and community composition, and how these dynamics can be used to inform successful management and restoration practices. Outside of her academic interests, she enjoys hiking, gardening, drawing, karaoke, and potlucks.