THERESA TALLEY
Research Topics
- Coastal ecology, ecosystem restoration, and invasive species
- Climate resilience of ecosystems and communities
- Marine debris and watershed pollution
- Local and sustainable seafood
- Coastal and marine education and workforce development
Research Interests
Talley's research is grounded in ecological principles and incorporates human dimensions in order to address today's complex environmental issues and pursue novel opportunities that promote a balance of the use and conservation of coastal and marine resources. All projects work towards healthy ecosystems, communities, and people by improving our understanding of ecosystems and sharing knowledge in order to foster well-informed decisions, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. Her work has included studies of plastics in the environment; climate resilience of people and ecosystems; and historical ecology.
Education & Outreach
Talley uses science to spark interest, nurture curiosity and learning, and connect people with nature and place in order to encourage environmental stewardship, provide blue and green workforce training, and improve community well-being. Talley leads outreach activities for the public, school kids, environmental practitioners, and educators, and since 2005 has taught a diversity of ecology, biology and environmental science classes at UCSD (Muir College), University of San Francisco, and University of San Diego. Since 2005, Talley has also served as a science advisor and wetland scientist for the Ocean Discovery Institute. She is currently leading development of the California Commercial Fisheries Apprenticeship Program.
Degrees
- BS in Botany, Connecticut College
- MS in Biology, San Diego State University
- PhD in Ecology, University of California, Davis