Colorado State University Natural Sciences Professor Laureate to Speak about Climate Change on Oct. 22

Note to Reporters: A photo of Professor Alan Knapp is available with the news release at http://www.news.colostate.edu/.

Alan Knapp, professor and senior ecologist in the department of biology, will present his 2009 Professor Laureate lecture – “Climate Change and Grasslands: What We Think We Know is NOT What We Need to Know” – on Oct. 22 from 4:30-5:30 p.m. in the Lory Student Center Cherokee Park Ballroom.

Knapp is best known for his research in the area of physiological plant ecology. He has published more than 135 peer-reviewed journal articles and has been cited by his peers more than 4,600 times in a variety of publications. Knapp has made many significant scientific contributions including redefining the understanding of vegetation dynamics and productivity in grassland ecosystems.

Knapp has served on advisory committees for the Smithsonian Institute, the Public Broadcasting System and the South African National Research Foundation Scientist Performance Review Program.

Professor Laureate is the highest academic title awarded by the College of Natural Sciences and is intended to honor faculty who have make outstanding contributions to its mission with work in the areas of research, teaching, mentoring and outreach. The title also recognizes the nominee’s career accomplishments and provides support for student research during the three-year appointment. Knapp was nominated by his peers in 2008 for this recognition.

Knapp’s honors include the William L. Stamey Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Education at Kansas State University, appointment as a University Distinguished Professor at KSU and appointment as the senior ecologist at the Graduate Degree Program in Ecology at Colorado State.

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