Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant
Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant is a large carnivore ecologist with expertise in using statistical modeling to investigate how anthropogenic factors can influence the spatial patterns of carnivore behavior and ecology. In particular, she is currently studying the ecological and social drivers of human-carnivore conflict, and the influence of fine-scale human activity on the connectivity of suitable carnivore habitats. Her current field system encompasses part of The Great Plains in northeastern Montana where she is studying potential corridors to facilitate grizzly bear conservation. Her previous research questions surrounded the ecological drivers of human-carnivore conflict with black bears in the Western Great Basin, African lions in rural Kenya and Tanzania, as well as grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
A native Californian, Dr. Wynn-Grant attributes her interest in wildlife and conservation to the television shows she watched as a child. She was introduced to the field of conservation biology as an undergraduate and is unapologetic about her passion for studying charismatic megafauna. Dr. Wynn-Grant serves on the Board of Governors for the Society for Conservation Biology, and as a Special Director for The Explorer’s Club, where she largely aids the organizations in their equity, inclusion, and diversity strategies.
Dr. Wynn-Grant received her B.S. in Environmental Studies from Emory University, her M.S. in Environmental Studies from Yale University, and her Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolution from Columbia University. She completed a Conservation Science Research and Teaching Postdoctoral fellowship with the Center for Biodiversity and Conservation at the American Museum of Natural History. Her doctoral and postdoctoral research focused on the ecological and social drivers of carnivore behavioral patterns in human-modified landscapes. She is currently a Fellow with National Geographic Society working on carnivore conservation in partnership with the American Prairie Reserve. She maintains a Visiting Scientist position at the American Museum of Natural History, and adjunct faculty positions at Columbia University and Johns Hopkins University.
Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant is a conservation scientist, large carnivore ecologist, nature storyteller, and advocate. A large carnivore ecologist with a background in conservation biology, she is currently a fellow at National Geographic Society and active in research around the world. Committed to making environmental science accessible to broad and diverse audiences, Dr. Wynn-Grant is a science communicator in the media and for public talks. Saving wildlife and wild places is dependent on the equitable participation of people who live in these spaces. Dr. Wynn-Grant works with organizations committed to giving youth their first experiences in nature.
Additional Information
You can find lots of other videos of Dr. Wynn-Grant on YouTube, just search by her name. In particular, you might enjoy this short video about working with bears!