Landscape Ecology

Dean Urban is Professor Emeritus of Landscape Ecology in the Nicholas School of the Environment at Duke University. His research focuses on devising innovative and rigorous approaches to applications of immediate practical concern. His research tools include habitat classification and mapping, site prioritization, spatial simulation, and integrated assessment. A hallmark of his work is integrated studies that extrapolate our fine-scale empirical understanding of environmental issues to the larger space and time scales of management and policy. Most of his work in landscape ecology has explored the causes and consequences of spatial pattern in forest systems. Specific interests include the implications of climate change for forest ecosystems, and the consequences of land use pattern on forest habitat connectivity and watershed function in developed landscapes. His current research focus is how land use affects the provision of ecosystem services, and in reconciling human institutions with natural systems.