Rebecca Finger Higgens
About Rebecca Finger Higgens
Rebecca Finger Higgens is a Research Ecologist Postdoctoral Scholar at the U.S. Geological Survey, focusing on the effects of climate change on dryland plant communities. She holds a PhD in Ecology, Evolution, Environments and Society and has a particular interest in mosses and cryptograms.
Current Role at U.S. Geological Survey
Rebecca Finger Higgens serves as a Research Ecologist Postdoctoral Scholar at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) since 2020. Her research focuses on the impact of climate change on dryland plant communities, particularly within Canyonlands National Park. This role involves studying the effects of land-use changes on plant communities, contributing to a deeper understanding of ecosystem dynamics in dryland environments.
Previous Experience at U.S. Geological Survey
Prior to her current position, Rebecca worked at the U.S. Geological Survey as a Biological Technician for three months in 2011. This role was based in Fairbanks, Alaska, where she gained initial experience in ecological research.
Educational Background
Rebecca Finger Higgens holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from The George Washington University, where she studied from 2002 to 2006. She furthered her education at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, earning a Master of Science in Biology/Biological Sciences from 2012 to 2014. She completed her academic journey with a Doctor of Philosophy in Ecology, Evolution, Environments and Society from the Dartmouth Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies, studying from 2015 to 2020.
Research Interests and Specialization
Rebecca has a specific interest in mosses and cryptograms, indicating a specialized focus within her ecological research. Her work examines the effects of climate change on plant communities, which is essential for understanding the broader implications of environmental changes on ecosystems.
Professional Experience in Academia and Industry
Rebecca has held various positions in both academic and industry settings. She served as an NSF GK-12 Fellow at the University of Alaska Fairbanks from 2013 to 2014 and worked as a Biologist at Environmental Planning Group, LLC for two months in 2012. Additionally, she participated in the Alaska Summer Research Academy at the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 2014.