I am a Research Scientist in the College of Forest Resources & Environmental Science at Michigan Tech University. I am working with SWAMP on projects to understand carbon dynamics in peatlands in the Andes and DRC, and on how science can help to drive the development of robust peatland policy options. I also work with the PeatRestore project with the USFS to develop peatland restoration decision support tools.
My PhD research focused on understanding the changing carbon cycle in Arctic peatlands. I worked to understand how changes in plant and microbial communities interact to control carbon uptake (through plant growth) and release (through decomposition) as permafrost thaws.
I previously completed an MSc in Watershed Management and Ecohydrology in the School of Natural Resources and the Environment at the University of Arizona. My research focused on understanding the factors that determine which benefits people derive from ecosystems (ecosystem services) and how these may be altered by changes in the environment such as decreasing water availability.
When I am not doing science, I can usually be found running, biking, or hiking in the mountains. I also love teaching and try to engage in environmental education activities whenever possible.
Academic Degrees
PhD: Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Arizona
2020
Dissertation: “Tracing the new C-cycle from plant inputs to microbial outputs across an arctic permafrost thaw gradient”
MSc: School of Natural Resources & Environment, University of Arizona
2013
Thesis: “Tracing environmental change from plant traits to social-ecological systems on the San Pedro River”
BA: Biology with Environmental Studies, Carleton College
2009
Major thesis: “Plant-mediated effects of anthropogenic nitrogen deposition on carbon accumulation in peatlands.”
Minor thesis: “Ecological Modeling in the Cannon River Watershed.”
Moira Hough 