Biodiversity Research Institute (BRI), a nonprofit ecological research group based in Portland, Maine, conducts innovative wildlife science worldwide.
BRI’s Center for Mercury Studies plays a lead scientific role in understanding the exposure and effects of mercury on wildlife in New England, North America, and around the world. The Center for Waterbird Studies is dedicated to assessing current and emerging threats to waterbirds. The programs in our Center for Ecology and Conservation Research aim to understand the workings of wildlife and their habitats while exploring how ecological stressors affect different species and ecosystems.
BRI's researchers are available to talk to journalists and provide expert information on both their work and the broader topics of their expertise.
To set up interviews, contact:
Deborah McKew, Communications Director
Dr. H. Bruce Rinker, BRI’s director of scientific advancement and development, will speak at the 4th international EcoSummit in Columbus, Ohio (September 30 to October 5, 2012) on forest systems and Gaia theory.
The theme of the EcoSummit will be “Restoring the Planet’s Ecosystem Services.” Plenary speakers will include E.O. Wilson and Jared Diamond. Details may be found at http://www.ecosummit2012.org/.
During the week-long gathering, Dr. Rinker will also meet with participating colleagues from México’s National Institute of Ecology (INE). INE and BRI are completing details on a memorandum of understanding that will allow BRI researchers to establish long-term scientific studies throughout México related to various conservation issues.
About 1500 delegates from 75 countries will be expected at the conference with 600 invited presentations in 65 symposia from around the world. In addition, 21 forums and workshops on practical issues related to improving our environment and another 850 general sessions and poster presentations will be offered. Dr. Rinker’s talk will be part of a program entitled “Terrestrial Ecosystem Services.”
