Research seeks to understand ecological relations between organisms (plant, animal or microbe) at individual, population and community levels, as well as between organisms and their environments. Key research areas within this theme include: community ecology, restoration ecology, conservation, ecological and evolutionary responses to climate change, and freshwater ecology.

Our research has many applied angles, such as ecosystem management, wildlife conservation, environmental and biological control, improving agricultural practice, and informing environmental policy. Researchers in this theme are also members of the Cabot Institute.