Jeff Larkin
The American Ornithological Society has honored an Indiana University of Pennsylvania professor with its Ralph W. Schreiber Conservation Award.
IUP Distinguished University Professor Jeff Larkin, a faculty member in IUP’s Department of Biology, was selected for the award, which honors extraordinary conservation-related scientific contributions by an individual or small team.
The American Ornithological Society annually recognizes individuals and groups whose ornithological research, contributions to the science and practice of ornithology, and service to the AOS, merit special distinction. Larkin will receive his award at the AOS annual meeting in Amherst, Massachusetts, in August.
“At a time when science is under attack, it is especially important to recognize meaningful science that advances the understanding and conservation of birds, and to recognize researchers whose creative work, careful implementation, and strong ethical standards guide the field of ornithology and demonstrate the integrity and the significance of science,” said AOS Executive Director and CEO Judith Scarl.
“Research is not done in a vacuum; it requires partnership, funding, education, and community. We also celebrate incredible service to the AOS that ensures that our members get the support they need to produce such impressive science. The AOS is so fortunate that our service award winners have chosen the AOS as their ‘home society’ and devote so much of their passion to supporting others in their field.”
“I’m delighted and proud to be honored with the AOS Schreiber Conservation Award,” Larkin said. “I am grateful to my peers for nominating me and humbled knowing my name joins a long list of passionate and distinguished avian conservationists who previously received this award.
“Little in conservation and science is achieved by an individual working alone,” he said. “Rather, outcomes are most impactful when diverse and passionate individuals work in collaboration. Throughout my career, I have been very fortunate to work alongside so many passionate graduate students, field technicians, researchers, land managers, and private landowners. All these individuals have shaped my growth as a conservationist, scientist, and a person. Like our coproduced science and conservation successes, I share this award with all those partners.
“Lastly, I dedicate this award to my long-time mentor and friend Dr. John Confer, who first gave me an opportunity as an unsure undergraduate to explore the world of avian research. His passion for birds and student success was contagious, for which I am indebted. I will forever pay that debt forward,” Larkin said.
The Schreiber Conservation Award honors extraordinary conservation-related scientific contributions by an individual or small team. Contributions from throughout the world and over any time period are eligible for this award, including applied research, restoration, and educational actions that conserve birds or preserve significant bird habitats; scientific examination of the principles of avian conservation and application of new insights into species restoration; and scientific evaluation, guidance, creation, and oversight of avian recovery programs or habitat reserve and restoration programs.
The award is named for Ralph Schreiber, a prominent figure in American ornithology known for his enthusiasm, energy, and dedication to research and conservation, particularly of seabirds.
In addition to his work as a faculty member at IUP, since 2012, Larkin has served as American Bird Conservancy’s Forest birds habitat advisor and the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Working Lands for Wildlife-Golden-winged Warbler science advisor. His research combines his expertise in forestry, wildlife ecology, and conservation. Larkin, along with his students and collaborators, has assisted state and federal agencies and other conservation groups with understanding the ecology and associated management implications for numerous wildlife species.
Larkin received his BA in biology from Ithaca College and his MSc Forestry and PhD in animal sciences from the University of Kentucky. He has authored or coauthored more than 170 scientific publications. In 2016, he received the USDA-Abraham Lincoln Award for his contributions to private lands conservation in partnership with NRCS’s Working Lands for Wildlife and, in 2019, was recognized by the Northeast Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies for his efforts to bridge wildlife science and forest management. Larkin’s current research and conservation efforts focus on dynamic forest restoration, a comprehensive approach to recover eastern forest birds through the implementation of conservation practices that improve within-stand and landscape structural complexity while addressing threats to forest resilience. This is his first award from the AOS.
Since its founding in 1875, IUP has evolved from a teacher-training institution into a doctoral research university recognized for its commitment to student success and achievement. IUP’s Impact 150 comprehensive campaign is designed to honor a legacy of educational excellence while looking toward a future of innovation, public service, and leadership in healthcare education, including the first college of osteopathic medicine at a public university in the Commonwealth.