University of Idaho graduate earns a degree in ecology and conservation

Kassandra Townsend’s first research position at the University of Idaho involved studying grass squirrels for a summer project. Later, she studied habitat stability in Maui, Hawaii, and researched shampoo ginger and habitat parameters of the plant in Costa Rica.   

The graduate student, who previously earned a bachelor’s in ecology and conservation biology, has continued working toward her PhD in natural resources.   

Townsend first became interested in biology growing up as an outdoorsy person with a love for wildlife. In her free time, she hikes, backpacks and enjoys climbing.   

Initially seeking to be a veterinarian, her career path changed after volunteering with biologists through Idaho Fish and Game. Working outside with wildlife, she continued to find more positions where she grew passionate about how the natural world works.   

At the university, Townsend stays busy. She’s involved in the Conservational Scholarship Program, All Nations Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Program, Bridges to the Doctorate Program, Incept Scholars Program and the Native American Student Association. These programs provide opportunities for research across the globe.  

Before Townsend came to UI, she attended community college in addition to Oregon State University.  

“Going to community college ended up being the right decision financially,” Townsend said. “Going to the University of Idaho provided a ton of opportunity and having the Native American Center made me feel more at home.”   

Among other resources, the Center has helped develop her academic career. From a Native American background, there were certain challenges she faced going to college.   

“There’s a little bit of a cultural difference,” Townsend said. “My family is super close, and I struggled with that when I first went off to college.”   

Graduating with her bachelor’s degree, Townsend was accepted into the Bridges to the Doctorate Program which helps Indigenous students get their PhD in STEM fields. She will continue her academic career and is anticipating her PhD in natural resources.   

Townsend’s hopes to continue researching and find data used in management applications that will benefit wildlife. She also wants to work with the public to educate others about the environment.  

Emily Pearce can be reached at arg-news@uidaho.edu or on Twitter @Emily_A_Pearce.