Dr Richard Gill who is a full professor and serves as the Chair of the Department of Biology at Brigham Young University, had a presentation at the National University of Samoa as part of the Centre for Samoan Studies Seminar and film series on Friday 26 July 2019.
Dr Gills presentation was on the topic, ‘Ecosystem services of Samoan reefs and protected areas’. According to him, “Samoa is exposed to some of the greatest hazards associated with climate change, including rising temperatures, sea level rise, ocean acidification, and increased storm intensity. Our research seeks to identify areas in Samoa vulnerable to climate change and identify solutions. Using GIS modeling and field based studies, we are seeking to promote ecological resilience and identity practical ways to restore ecosystem services critical to Samoa and other Pacific island.”
Dr Gill developed an interest in ecology as a child while exploring the forests and seashores of Washington State. This attraction to wild places motivated Dr Gill to study Conservation biology as an undergraduate at Brigham Young University and to receive a PhD in Ecology from Colorado State University and a postdoctoral fellow at Duke University.
