Dr. Shebitz is a plant ecologist who researches the effects of land management on culturally significant species and ecosystems. She is inspired by traditions that have lasted for millennia based on sustainably managed ecosystems through anthropogenic fire and selective harvesting. 

Dr. Shebitz is also motivated by research that investigates the effects of altered land management on culturally and ecologically significant plants, and working with local people to restore those plants and ecosystems that defined the region. Her research weaves together methods from biology and ecology with ethnobotany and anthropology to gain an appreciation for the complexity of ecosystems and to develop restoration plans based on present and historic land management.

Department/Division:  School of Environmental and Sustainability Science

Degree Information: Ph.D., Ecosystem Science, University of Washington, College of Forest Resources, Seattle, WA; M.S., Environmental and Forest Biology, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY; B.S., Environmental and Forest Biology, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry

Courses Taught:  Ecology, Applied Ecology, Genes, Organisms and Populations (GOP), Introduction to Biology, Medicinal Botany, Urban Ecology, Field Methods in Terrestrial Ecology, Senior Seminar.

Primary Area of Expertise: Biology, ecology, medicinal botany.