Faculty Profile
Maggie Douglas
Associate Professor of Environmental Studies (2017)
Contact Information
Kaufman Hall
717-254-8393
Bio
Dr. Douglas studies the ecology of agricultural systems with an emphasis on the roles of insects and other invertebrates as friend and foe to food production. Her research employs eclectic methods ranging from field experiments to meta-analysis, and is oriented to practical application through dialogue with farmers, beekeepers, conservation organizations, and policy makers. Her interests include Integrated Pest Management, biological control, soil conservation, ecotoxicology (esp. neonicotinoid insecticides), and socio-ecological dynamics of pesticide use. Recently, her research has focused on estimating pesticide use on the landscape to support pollinator research and conservation.
Education
- B.A., Oberlin College, 2004
- M.S., The Pennsylvania State University, 2012
- Ph.D., 2016
2026-2027 Academic Year
Fall 2026
FYSM 100 First-Year Seminar
The First-Year Seminar (FYS) introduces students to Dickinson as a "community of inquiry" by developing habits of mind essential to liberal learning. Through the study of a compelling issue or broad topic chosen by their faculty member, students will:
- Critically analyze information and ideas
- Examine issues from multiple perspectives
- Discuss, debate and defend ideas, including one's own views, with clarity and reason
- Develop discernment, facility and ethical responsibility in using information, and
- Create clear academic writing
The small group seminar format of this course promotes discussion and interaction among students and their professor. In addition, the professor serves as students' initial academic advisor. This course does not duplicate in content any other course in the curriculum and may not be used to fulfill any other graduation requirement.
ENST 305 Applied Entomology
Insects are the most diverse and abundant animals on Earth. This course will introduce students to their biology and identification, interactions with human societies, and frameworks for their study, management, and conservation. Particular emphasis will be placed on Integrated Pest Management as a framework to guide the human-insect relationship. Class meetings will incorporate significant student participation including presentation and discussion of the scientific literature. Laboratories will provide students with opportunities to develop skills in entomological methods and discover the diversity of insects in the surrounding region.
Spring 2027
ENST 406 Pollinators and People
Over three quarters of flowering plant species rely on animal pollinators to create seeds and fruit. Pollinators therefore play an essential role in the regeneration of ecosystems and the production of human food. Unfortunately, evidence is building that many pollinator populations and species are in decline due to habitat degradation, invasive species, pesticide exposure, climate change, and other anthropogenic stressors. This senior seminar will critically examine relationships between pollinators and people by engaging with a range of interdisciplinary scholarship as well as the work of practitioners in the environmental field. Together we will explore evidence for pollinator decline and diverse approaches to harness human creativity for pollinator protection and recovery. Students will help to lead class discussion and develop a capstone project focused on a particular dimension of pollinator protection that speaks to their interests. Throughout, students will be encouraged to reflect on their education and experiences to articulate their place in the interdependent web of life.