Convocation: Margaret Lowman

Climbing trees for a living is the job of Meg Lowman, who for 30 years has designed new methods for exploration of the rain forest canopy and solved mysteries in the treetops of the world’s forests, with special attention on the links between insect pests and ecosystem health. Lowman pioneered the science of canopy ecology, designing methods and protocols for research in the rain forest canopy using a variety of techniques, including rope walkways and hot air balloons. She relentlessly works to “map” the canopy for biodiversity and to champion forest conservation around the world. Her international network and passion for science have led her into leadership roles where she seeks best practices to solve environmental challenges. Lowman serves as Director of the Nature Research Center and is also Research Professor of Natural Sciences at North Carolina State University where she focuses on initiatives involving science communication to the public. The title of her presentation was "Life in the Treetops: Conservation of the World's Rain Forests."