John Piccolo, professor of biology
“Scientists and society have become increasingly aware of the growing ecological crisis of climate change and loss of biodiversity. Applied ecological research and conservation science should play a key role in guiding political decision makers in working for a sustainable future.”
John Piccolo grew up in New Jersey, USA, 30 km from New York City. He took a Bachelor and Master of Science at Colorado State University, and worked for 10 years in natural resource management before taking a PhD at the University of Alaska. He has a broad background in evolutionary and applied ecology with strong interest in both teaching and research.
John moved to Karlstad in April 2008 with his wife and two young daughters, and has worked at Karlstad University the past 11 years. He is a researcher in the River Ecology and Management Group (NRRV), focusing on applying ecological research to improve natural resource management.
“I have done research on a variety of topics from animal behavior to conservation science on social-ecological systems. My ecological research focuses on the behavior of stream fishes and on applying the results to sustainable resource management. For example, we have a collaboration with Sweden’s largest hydropower companies to apply ecological modelling to improve river management.”
Johns conservation science research is a multidisciplinary effort that focuses on how researchers can contribute to developing a sustainable relationship with the natural world for this and for future generations.
“Scientists and society have become increasingly aware of the growing ecological crisis of climate change and loss of biodiversity. Applied ecological research and conservation science should play a key role in guiding political decision makers in working for a sustainable future. I have been very fortunate to have great mentors throughout my career, and lucky to work at Karlstad University and be part of the NRRV research group. We are building a vibrant research and teaching university here at Karlstad University and I look forward to seeing even better things to come.”
John describes the city of Karlstad as a great place for family life. In their free time he and his family like to enjoy Värmland’s rich nature. John would like to thank his family and friends for all their support.