Out on a Limb: Challenges of a Woman in Biology

Meg Lowman, Ph.D.
Director, Nature Research Center
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh, NC
Research Professor, Physical and Mathematical Sciences, North Carolina State University
http://canopymeg.com/

Nicknamed the “real-life Lorax” by National Geographic and “Einstein of the treetops” by Wall Street Journal, Meg Lowman pioneered the science of canopy ecology. For over 30 years, she has designed canopy access methods including hot-air balloons and walkways for treetop exploration to solve mysteries in the world’s forests, especially insect pests and ecosystem health. Meg is affectionately called the mother of canopy research as one of the first scientists to explore this eighth continent. She relentlessly works to map the canopy for biodiversity and to champion forest conservation around the world. Her international network and passion for science have led her into leadership roles where she seeks best practices to solve environmental challenges.