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Trophic Cascades

The addition or removal of top predators creates reciprocal changes in populations of predator & prey through a food chain, affecting ecosystem structure & nutrient cycling.

Why It's Cool?!

How to Get There?

Education & Certifications

M.S. Wildlife Ecology / Trophic Interactions

University of Wisconsin–Madison – Department of Forest & Wildlife Ecology

Graduate program with strong trophic ecology research, predator-prey dynamics, and ecosystem-level science applicable to rewilding and conservation management careers.

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Internships

Ecology & Trophic Research Intern

Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC)

Research ecosystem dynamics, trophic cascades, and species interactions in the field alongside SERC scientists in coastal and estuarine environments.

Mentors

Dr. William Ripple

Distinguished Professor, Oregon State University / Trophic Cascades Pioneer

Leading researcher on trophic cascades, apex predators, and ecosystem effects; author of major rewilding papers.

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Mentorship Network

Rewilding Institute

Conservation organization advancing trophic rewilding science with professional mentorship and research connections.

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Dr. Terrie Williams

Professor, UC Santa Cruz / Marine Predator Ecologist

Marine predator ecologist studying keystone species and trophic dynamics in ocean systems.

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Mentorship Network

Society for Conservation Biology – Rewilding Working Group

Professional network within SCB focused on trophic ecology and rewilding with peer mentorship and research collaboration.

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