Hi everyone,

My name is Jonathon Schramm, and I'm a fifth-year Ph.D. student in the Ecology and Evolution program at Rutgers University in New Jersey (and taking this course through nearby Columbia University). My research is looking at some of the factors influencing the spread of an exotic grass, Microstegium vimineum, into our mixed hardwood forests around here. As I've progressed, it has become increasingly apparent that forest age and prior land use (in my study region, mainly pasture, orchards, and some row cropping) are important drivers for this invasion, which has made me excited about examining the connection between agricultural practices, landscape arrangements, and biological invasions/biodiversity. Then, when I saw this course being posted, I knew I couldn't miss it!

Also related to the topic, I  love growing and eating good food, and I'm very interested in approaches that can lead to the healthiest, most diverse agriculture possible!

A few other odds and ends...

  I'm a native of mid-Michigan, and completed undergraduate work at Calvin College in Grand Rapids.

  I'm married, and just last June our son Erich was born.

  I love to home-roast coffee (can't beat the taste and freshness!) and often buy the beans green from a plantation called La Magnolia in Costa Rica (any chance you know that place, Sergio and Adina?).

  When I get the chance, I love to bike, backpack, snowshoe, etc.

At any rate, I'll bring this rambling intro to a close-thanks for bearing with it! I'm looking forward to working and learning with all of you.