Thomas Rosburg

Drake University recently selected Thomas Rosburg, professor of biology, as the Ronald Troyer Research Fellow for 2013-14.

The fellowship was created in 2010 to recognize Ronald Troyer, who served as the University's chief academic officer for nine years. Troyer is currently senior counselor for international initiatives at Drake.

"This Fellowship honors Dr. Troyer's lifetime of contributions to the University's culture of scholarship,” said Drake University Provost Deneese Jones. “I am pleased that we are able to honor Professor Rosburg in this way. He has certainly achieved a position of prominence in his discipline, and he is recognized as such among his peers who participated in the selection process."

Rosburg, who began his Drake career in 1996, is known for his expertise in plant ecology and prairie ecosystems. He has been awarded more than $1 million in research funding to support over 70 research projects, the results of which are often used to inform and advise land managers and conservationists. Rosburg previously served as Drake’s director of the environmental science and policy program and chair of the Biology Department, both of which are appointed positions.

The Troyer Fellowship carries a $5,000 stipend to cover one year of research-related expenses, including support of research assistants, equipment, travel, and materials.

“I am thrilled to receive this honor, and thank the Board of Trustees for their sponsorship of the Fellowship and the selection committee for their work,” Rosburg says. “The funds will provide support for students and equipment in ongoing research on the effect of cattle grazing on prairie and long-term research monitoring biodiversity in forest, savanna, and grassland ecosystems. It will also support new research investigating the vegetation associated with rare sand dune ecosystems in southeast Iowa and northwestern Illinois.”

Past Troyer Research Fellow honorees include:

• Mark Vitha, associate professor of chemistry
• Klaus Bartschat, Ellis and Nelle Levitt Professor of Physics
• Jody Swilky, professor of English