Karis Puruncajas

My research is centered around the study of impacts of urban patterns and processes on ecosystem dynamics, specifically with regard to freshwater systems. Specific areas of interest include the exploration of the effects of landscape configuration and composition on the integrity and resilience of freshwater systems and the impact of alternative land use policies and strategies on the ecological health of urban systems under different plausible future scenarios. The following theoretical framework and management strategies have been influential in my studies: complex adaptive systems; scenario planning and resilience management.

Program: Second-year student, Interdisciplinary PhD in Urban Design and Planning

Thesis Title: Not yet determined

Role in UERL: Research Assistant, NSF Biocomplexity 2 Project -- Forest Function Along an Urban Gradient

Contact Information:
Urban Ecology Research Laboratory
Department of Urban Design and Planning
University of Washington
Box 355740
3949 15th Ave. NE
Seattle, WA 98195-5740
phone: (206) 616-9379; fax: (206) 685-9597
email: karist@u.washington.edu

Goals/Other Interests: Climbing, running and exploring the Pacific Northwest