Date/Time
Date(s) - 03/04/2024
10:30 am - 11:30 am

Date/Time:  April 3, 2024 (10:30AM – 11:30AM)

Location:  HH – 312

Speaker: Carling Bieg (Yale University)

Title: Non-equilibrium dynamics in ecological systems

Abstract:  Between the regular and repeating patterns defining environmental fluctuations (e.g., seasonality), and the less-predictable variability that is superimposed upon these cycles, ecological systems rarely exist in static environments. Despite this, much of our theoretical foundation is based on the assumption of equilibrium, and empirical research is often done in only one season. Using examples from multiple systems, Dr. Bieg will discuss how equilibrium concepts can be extended to understand the structure and functioning of ecological systems in variable environments, including the potential for nonlinear effects of this variation that are unexpected based on underlying equilibrium structures. Ultimately, the ability to predict ecological resilience under global change relies on a generalizable understanding of non-equilibrium dynamics that builds upon our current theoretical scaffolding.

Dr. Carling Bieg is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow with Dr. David Vasseur at Yale University. She completed her PhD in 2022 with Dr. Kevin McCann at the University of Guelph. Her PhD examined non-equilibrium ecology.