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Exploring biodiversity and ecological systems from genes to ecosystems

Scientists working in the Biodiversity and Sustainable Systems section at Oak Ridge National Laboratory seek to advance overall knowledge of ecosystem functionality by exploring the complex interactions between genes, individual organisms, populations, and communities to understand how they influence – and are influenced by – the management, health, and resilience of ecological systems. Research encompasses multiple disciplines, integrating data analytics, sophisticated model simulations, engineering design, decision-support frameworks, and advanced visualization technologies. This interdisciplinary approach allows the team to address complex ecological and environmental challenges effectively. 

A significant research focus involves developing predictive models and advanced simulations to evaluate and mitigate the impacts of energy production. The team actively develops and implements tools and methodologies designed to quantify biodiversity, identify and assess threats, and effectively mitigate risks to critical ecosystem services. These efforts help ensure minimal ecological disruption while enhancing national energy security.

Researchers work to provide policymakers and communities with critical data to inform decisions that safeguard biodiversity and enhance ecological resilience. The team develops advanced simulation models to comprehensively evaluate the impacts of current and emerging energy technologies. These simulations provide valuable insights into how various energy strategies can affect human health, economic stability, and the environment. By delivering robust analytical tools and actionable data, researchers enable strategic planning and informed policy decisions that balance energy demands with ecological preservation.

Another major emphasis of the research centers around the goal of developing solutions to expand the U.S. bioeconomy — a system that utilizes biological resources to produce food, energy, and commercial goods. The research emphasizes practices that ensure ecosystem services remain intact while promoting economic growth and energy security.  

Researchers in this section also pioneer advancements in water resource science and engineering to improve the understanding and management of vital water resources. These initiatives ensure that ecosystems and human communities have access to reliable and adaptable water management solutions, particularly in the context of changing environmental conditions and energy production requirements.

Scientists working in the Biodiversity and Sustainable Systems section at Oak Ridge National Laboratory seek to advance overall knowledge of ecosystem functionality by exploring the complex interactions between genes, individual organisms, populations, and communities to understand how they influence – and are influenced by – the management, health, and resilience of ecological systems. Research encompasses multiple disciplines, integrating data analytics, sophisticated model simulations, engineering design, decision-support frameworks, and advanced visualization technologies. This interdisciplinary approach allows the team to address complex ecological and environmental challenges effectively. 

A significant research focus involves developing predictive models and advanced simulations to evaluate and mitigate the impacts of energy production. The team actively develops and implements tools and methodologies designed to quantify biodiversity, identify and assess threats, and effectively mitigate risks to critical ecosystem services. These efforts help ensure minimal ecological disruption while enhancing national energy security.

Researchers work to provide policymakers and communities with critical data to inform decisions that safeguard biodiversity and enhance ecological resilience. The team develops advanced simulation models to comprehensively evaluate the impacts of current and emerging energy technologies. These simulations provide valuable insights into how various energy strategies can affect human health, economic stability, and the environment. By delivering robust analytical tools and actionable data, researchers enable strategic planning and informed policy decisions that balance energy demands with ecological preservation.

Another major emphasis of the research centers around the goal of developing solutions to expand the U.S. bioeconomy — a system that utilizes biological resources to produce food, energy, and commercial goods. The research emphasizes practices that ensure ecosystem services remain intact while promoting economic growth and energy security.  

Researchers in this section also pioneer advancements in water resource science and engineering to improve the understanding and management of vital water resources. These initiatives ensure that ecosystems and human communities have access to reliable and adaptable water management solutions, particularly in the context of changing environmental conditions and energy production requirements.