Joe Kolowski
Research Scientist
Joe’s broad research interests are in mammalian ecology in the human landscape and the investigation and mitigation of human-wildlife conflict.
Specifically, he is interested in the use of spatial data at the landscape and local scale to investigate the influence of habitat fragmentation and additional human activities on mammalian space use patterns, social systems, demographics, and the dynamics of human-carnivore conflict.
His passion for conservation and applied research has spawned a corresponding enthusiasm for the integration of this research with effective conservation education and training.
Joe has a bachelor’s degree in natural resources and wildlife ecology from Cornell University, a master’s degree in wildlife ecology from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, and a doctoral degree in zoology from Michigan State University.
His doctoral work investigated interactions between humans and large carnivores in and around the Masai Mara National Reserve in southwest Kenya. The project focused on documenting behavioral changes in spotted hyenas in response to livestock grazing and the factors influencing rates and locations of carnivore depredation of livestock.
He joined CCES in 2007 as a post-doctoral fellow and investigated the effects of oil exploration on the behavior and ecology of ocelots, primates, and other mammals in northern Peru.
Since late 2009, Joe has coordinated the Center’s international conservation training and capacity building programs. These programs have a long history of success and popularity and Joe capitalizes on his experience in international research, university teaching, and community outreach and education to ensure that the success of these programs not only continues but increases in the coming years.
He continues to be involved in various research programs within CCES, both in Gabon and Peru, investigating the influence of extractive activities on forest wildlife.
