The Midwest Climate Adaptation Science Center is excited to welcome Dee (Diele) Lobo as the postdoctoral researcher leading the MW CASC’s first synthesis research project based at host University of Minnesota. The project aims to assess the current state of climate change adaptation planning in the Midwest region and identify approaches that maximize benefits to nature and people and minimize maladaptive natural resource management practices.
Lobo is a conservation scientist with expertise in human dimensions of conservation and natural resources management. She values an integrative and actionable approach to science – which is part of what brought her to work with the MW CASC. Her research has used concepts and approaches from social-ecological systems, ecosystem services, restoration ecology, organizational and workforce development, and entrepreneurship research to support decision-making related to natural resources management, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation. As a result, her work is interdisciplinary and collaborative, bringing together the natural and social sciences and bridging the gap between science, practice, and policy.
Originally from Brazil, Lobo earned a Ph.D. in Conservation Science from the University of Minnesota and a master's in Forest Ecology from the Federal University of Pernambuco in Brazil, where she managed conservation planning projects and co-authored a book that served as a landmark work for restoration practice and policy in Northeast Brazil.
The three things that excite Lobo most about joining the MW CASC community are:
- Being part of a regional network of academic, federal, Tribal, and non-profit partners committed to working together to advance evidence-based practice through approaches that are responsive to the on-the-ground needs of different stakeholders.
- Being part of a female-led team and working closely with researchers with careers that match her aspirations.
- Using her expertise in human dimensions and conservation social science to forge new collaborations for interdisciplinary adaptation research.
Regarding the goals of the synthesis project, Lobo said, “I hope the findings and products of this project contribute to supporting, empowering, and connecting professionals working with climate adaptation across the Midwest and, ultimately, the development of capacities of individuals, organizations, and communities to both respond to and drive changes.”
Outside of work, Lobo enjoys traveling, cooking competition shows, having friends over for dinner, spending time with her cats, and cozy Minnesota winter days.