Kristine Hoffmann
Kristine Hoffmann
Graduate Research Assistant, Sustainability Solutions Initiative
Ph.D. Student, Department of Wildlife Ecology
What progress are you making towards sustainability solutions?
I am working to learn more about the life history of the blue-spotted salamander and unisexual salamanders. Once we know the basics about these animals, we will be able to make better management decisions to ensure they persist for future generations.
What is one of your favorite conferences you have presented at, and why?
The Northeast Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Annual Meeting was my favorite conference. This is a very welcoming organization that brings biologists together to work for the conservation of these animals through research, education, and policy. The group is very friendly, and the meeting was a great place to meet up with old friends and make new contacts. Amphibian and reptile biologists are all a little bit weird, and it’s nice to be weird together.
When do you expect to graduate, and what do you see as the next step in your academic or professional career?
I still have two more field seasons, so I will probably graduate in 2015 or 2016. After that, I plan on returning to teaching at a small liberal arts college.
I have a better perspective now regarding how my field intertwines with others to create sustainability solutions. I’ll be more likely to work with others outside of my discipline and to work closely with stakeholders in the future.
I loved the retreat. It was great to mingle in such a beautiful place while learning about other projects.