Kevin R. Burgio

I’m a NE CASC Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Massachusetts, an ORISE Fellow with the U.S. Geological Survey, a Consultant Conservation Biologist with Terwilliger Consulting, a Research Scientist at the University of Connecticut, and a Subject Editor at the journal Avian Conservation and Ecology.

I consider myself an integrative ecologist and generally study how disturbance, like climate change and habitat loss, affects the distribution and extinction risk of birds and other animals. Additionally, I do research in the fields of science communication and education.

Aside from ecological research, I’m an advocate for diversity, inclusion, and equality in science, and am personally a first-generation college student, disabled military veteran, single-parent, and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I sometimes write about social justice issues in science, like this article on the barriers to open science and how remote postdoctoral jobs can be a tool for more inclusiveness in STEM. I believe Black Lives Matter and that it is my role, as a white, cis-male, to use my privilege to the benefit of those not as privileged as I am. While it certainly benefits science and conservation to be diverse, inclusive, and equitable, I believe it is just the right and just thing to do and needs no further justification.

Additionally, I am a science communicator and regularly write, perform, and appear on podcasts to discuss science, conservation, and being a scientist.

I hang out with my daughter in my spare time, and we often spend time outdoors birdwatching, metal detecting, fishing, and rockhounding. I also enjoy restoring vintage items, such as cast iron pans, furniture, and watches. I also have two cats who have been keeping me company during this pandemic. Please follow me on Twitter if you feel like it – @KRBurgio!