Carli
_{Ecologist, Writer, Naturalist}

My name is Carli Dinsmore. I'm an ecologist. I'm curious to better understand this fantastic world with all its myriad of creatures. I'm passionate about learning how species have evolved to thrive and interact in particular environments and how they will continue to do so in the future.

Research

My research is focused on understanding patterns in demographic variables within populations. My work attempts to answer questions about the influence of resource limitations on reproduction, growth, body size and body condition. I'm especially fascinated by how populations change over time in response to changes in their environment. In an ever more rapidly changing world, understanding how species respond can allow us to predict population responses in the future, potentially mitigating the unprecedented loss of biodiversity across our planet.

Teaching

Sharing our excitement about science and cultivating a curios and questioning mindset is an essential element of being a teacher. As a lifelong learner, I am constantly reminded of the difficulty and confusion inherent in learning a new skill or unfamiliar concept. The goal is not to be the torch which illuminates a new idea, but rather to ignite a new flame to guide future discovery. You can read more on my teaching philosophy here, or an example of a teaching presentation here.

Outreach

Communicating science is a critical component of research, and propagating our excitement and research findings to the general public has never been more critical. Developing outreach material draws on our creativity and communication skills as scientists, compelling us to frame dense and complex ideas in a digestible and engaging way. I especially enjoy outreach to children, which is both challenging in that it requires a greater degree of simplicity and clarity and also inspiring to see your excitement reflected in the face of another--the most basic joy of mutual human wonder at the world we share.