Department of Biology

 Dr. Rudi Strickler is a pioneering zooplankton ecologist whose work has transformed our understanding of how microscopic aquatic organisms feed, avoid predators, and pursue mates. Using high-speed video and custom optical systems, he has revealed that these interactions are far more dynamic and complex than once believed, moving beyond the idea of “chance encounters.” His innovative research, including his landmark work with Mimi Koehl on copepod feeding currents, has become foundational in aquatic ecology and is widely taught across the field.