Leader: Salit Kark

Contributed by Salit Kark

Name: Salit Kark

Job: Ph.D., Senior Lecturer, The Biodiversity Research Group, Department of Evolution, Systematics and Ecology, The Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Where do you work (city and country):  Jerusalem, Israel

Degree(s):  Ph.D., M.Sc. (Environmental Biology) and B.Sc. (Biology) from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel.

Describe your work/research:
My research focuses on understanding the patterns and processes shaping biodiversity and their implications for conservation in a changing world, with focus on Mediterranean ecosystems, and especially the Mediterranean Basin. I focus on biodiversity along species ranges and ecological gradients as well as in biodiversity in human-dominated landscapes. This includes studies on both native and introduced species in natural, agricultural and urban environs. Currently, I am coordinating a large project aimed at running a conservation planning exercise in the Mediterranean Basin, combining biodiversity, threats, social and economic factors, together with scientists at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the University of Queensland. 

What inspires you in your work?
The fact that some of our ideas and work can later be translated to actions and can be used for better conserving biodiversity and making this world a better place for our kids and for many other baby and adult animals in their native savannas, forests, seas and many other places.

What are the highlights of your career accomplishments? 
Working in and traveling to many different areas around the globe (such as Kenya, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, California, and the Mediterranean Basin) and training a new generation of scientists in my research group in Israel.

Why is the Global Mediterranean Action Network exciting to you?
Because these areas are probably some of the most challenging for conservation, being so rich in biological diversity but also in cultural diversity. It is a real important task to try and make plans that take into account both nature and people.

How did your early experiences in nature influence you?
As a young child my parents took us hiking down to the Grand Canyon, camping for months in some of the U.S. wilderness areas. 

What are your favorite species and/or landscapes?
I love many animals. I especially feel close to elephants, otters and dolphins, and of course also birds. My name in Hebrew (Sal’it) is the name of a wheatear, a beautiful small songbird.

What activities do you enjoy in your spare time?
I love traveling around the globe, hiking, camping and showing my young kids the small wonders of nature, and when I get a chance — playing tennis, squash and swimming.

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