Land & Biodiversity

The Institute of Environment drives transformative research to protect species and landscapes across oceans, forests, grasslands, and skies. We tackle urgent global challenges—food security, climate change, and biodiversity loss—through innovative, data-driven science. By advancing biodiversity research and delivering actionable solutions, we aim to combat species extinction and ecosystem collapse, shaping a more resilient and sustainable future.

Featured Projects

Evolutionary Reversals in Lizards

This project studies how testosterone’s effects on growth evolve across lizard species, revealing how hormonal responses can shift over time. It also supports science education through teacher involvement.

Orchid Conservation in Everglades National Park

On September 10, 2017, Hurricane Irma impacted woody vegetation in southern Everglades National Park, including buttonwood forests rich in epiphytes and endangered orchids.

Industrial Hemp Pilot Project

FIU’s Industrial Hemp Pilot Project supports Florida’s emerging hemp industry by identifying suitable varieties, developing cultivation practices, and assessing crop viability under local conditions

Programs & Centers

Our centers and programs lead research, education, and action for a more sustainable and resilient planet.

International Center for Tropical Botany at The Kampong

Our center is the result of a partnership between FIU and the National Tropical Botanical Garden. We are headquartered at The Kampong, the historical estate of plant explorer Dr. David Fairchild and one of the National Tropical Botanical Garden’s five sites, in Coconut Grove, Florida. We develop research, education and outreach programs related to tropical botany, integrating the research programs of a faculty with global presence in tropical regions.

Agroecology Program

Our Agroecology Program integrates science-based education, research and outreach focusing on the interface of agriculture, natural ecosystems and urban development. It features specialized undergraduate agroecology courses, field trips, summer internships, graduate fellowships, and training workshops for university students and high school teachers.