Becoming an Ecologist - by John Wiens

About the Book

John A. Wiens traces his journeys through several subfields of ecology--and, in so doing, gives readers an inside look at how science actually works.

Book Synopsis

What forces influence a person's decision to pursue a career in science? And what factors determine which among the many possible pathways a budding scientist chooses to follow?

John A. Wiens traces his journeys through several subfields of ecology--and, in so doing, gives readers an inside look at how science actually works. He shares stories from his development as an ornithologist, community ecologist, landscape ecologist, and conservation scientist that convey the excitement of doing ecology. Recounting the serendipities, discoveries, and joys of this branching career, Wiens explores how an individual's background and interests, life's contingencies, the influences of key people, and the culture of a discipline can all shape a scientist's trajectory. Becoming an Ecologist illustrates why ecologists ask the questions they do, how they go about answering them, and what they do when the answers are not what they expected.

Bringing together personal narrative with practical guidance for aspiring ecologists, this book provides a window onto a dynamic scientific field--and inspiration for all readers interested in building a career by following their passion for the natural world.

Review Quotes

Part practical guide to the discipline, but also an ode to the wonder and beauty of the natural world and the study of it.-- "KLCC, NPR for Oregonians"

This book explores what it means to be an ecologist, showing that it is a lifelong venture that can entail many pathways. Providing examples from his own journey, Wiens conveys deep knowledge about how an ecologist's career can change over time, just as the field of ecology has developed over the years.--Virginia H. Dale, research professor, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and corporate fellow emeritus, Oak Ridge National Laboratory

In Becoming an Ecologist, Wiens offers insightful reflections on why he did, or did not, take certain pathways along his distinguished scientific career. His perspectives on past debates and current issues in ecology, as well as his roles in shaping the trajectories of several disciplines, are of special significance. Becoming an Ecologist is informative, important, interesting, and vivid. The suggestions and advice Wiens provides throughout the book will be helpful to the next generations of scientists in general and ecologists in particular.--Jianguo "Jack" Liu, Rachel Carson Chair in Sustainability, University Distinguished Professor, and director of the Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability, Michigan State University

About the Author

John A. Wiens turned a childhood interest in birds into a career in ecology. He served on the faculties of Oregon State University, the University of New Mexico, and Colorado State University, where he is University Distinguished Professor Emeritus. He then worked for the Nature Conservancy as chief scientist. His work emphasizes the ecology of birds, landscape ecology, and conservation.