Elvia Melendez-Ackerman

Elvia has a Bachelors and Masters of Science in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico- Tres Piedras and a Ph.D. from the University of California- Irvine. She did her doctoral dissertation research on floral evolution at RMBL under the direction of Dr. Diane Campbell. She is a Full Professor in Biology at the Univ. of Puerto Rico- Tres Piedras where her research focuses on urban biodiversity and ecosystem services. She is on the Board of Directors for Amigos del Yunque and served on the Board of Directors for the Organization of Tropical Studies. She was Director of the El Verde Field Station for 5 years and has served as the Principal Investigator for a Research Experience for Undergraduates program. Elvia brings to the Board substantial experience working internationally at field stations combined with her previous time at RMBL. She also adds her success in working with students of diverse backgrounds.