Tanika Ladd

As a marine ecologist, I am broadly interested in understanding how the environment shapes the structure and function of marine communities. I am particularly fascinated by the roles and consequences of ecological interactions between microbial and metazoan communities. My past research has explored the impacts of disturbances such as wildfires, oil pollution, and climate change on marine phytoplankton and other microbes. I have also worked at deep-sea hydrothermal vent ecosystems investigating the influence of microbial biofilms on invertebrate larval settlement and assessing ecosystem impacts and recovery from a volcanic eruption that smothered vent communities. I really enjoy spending time at sea where I get to work with highly collaborative teams and see and learn about the amazing marine ecosystems that we share the Earth with. I am very excited to teach at Western – the place that fueled my passion to study the environment as an undergraduate student. I recently completed a postdoctoral research position at Shannon Point Marine Center and I am happy to stay in the Pacific Northwest where I enjoy hiking, kayaking, and spending time in our beautiful natural environment.