Nathan Gill, an expert in geography and fire ecology, has been named an assistant professor in Texas Tech University's Department of Natural Resources Management, according to officials within the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. He officially steps into his new teaching and research post on Sept. 1.

The Coloradan is particularly interested in the interactions between fire and other disturbances, including insect outbreak, grazing, and the introduction of non-native plants. One of his primary goals here at Tech is to mentor students as they study fire as an important ecological process and an effective management tool.

Prior to joining the Tech faculty, Gill worked as a postdoctoral researcher with the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Department of Integrative Biology. In addition, he worked as a fellow at the U.S. Geological Survey's Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center; an adjunct professor in Clark University's Graduate School of Geography, and a research consultant at the NASA Ames Research Center.

Gill received his bachelor's degree in geographic information systems from Brigham Young University. His master's degree and doctorate degree in geography are from Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. He is a member of the American Association of Geographers and the International Association for Landscape Ecology-North America.

CASNR officials noted that Texas Tech has an outstanding tradition of fire science research and education, and its location on the Southern High Plains provides an excellent setting in which to focus on the effects of both prescribed and wild fires. In addition, the department owns fire-related equipment, including a pumper truck, all-terrain vehicles, and drip torches.

CONTACT: Warren Conway, Chairman and Bricker Endowed Chair in Wildlife Management, Department of Natural Resources Management, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2841 or warren.conway@ttu.edu

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