Some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems found on our planet, wetlands are filled with unique plant life and organisms that contribute to the ecological health of the surrounding environment.
An area which is saturated or flooded with water, the distinction of a wetland is the aquatic vegetation which has adapted to thrive in these permanently saturated soils.
Understanding, managing and protecting wetlands has been some of the impetus behind a new Freshwater Minor announced at the School of Aquatic and Fisheries Sciences (SAFS). 

Differences in the life history pathways (LHPs) of juvenile animals are often associated with differences in demographic rates in later life stages. For migratory animals, different LHPs often result in animals from the same population occupying distinct habitats subjected to different environmental drivers. 

SAFS alum Nancy Huizar exemplifies collaboration and collective action within the Seattle community, proving the environmental sciences are interconnected and in relationship to everything — population health, the strength of local democracy and education equity. 

The University of Washington School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences and the School of Oceanography invite applications for a full-time (100% FTE), 9-month, non-tenured faculty position at the level of Assistant or Associate Teaching Professor in the broad field of marine sciences. Primary teaching responsibilities will be in the Marine Biology program at the University of Washington field station, Friday Harbor Laboratories (FHL). 

More than a century of preserved fish specimens offer a rare glimpse into long-term trends in parasite populations. New research from the University of Washington with lead author Chelesea Wood from SAFS, shows that fish parasites plummeted from 1880 to 2019, a 140-year stretch when Puget Sound — their habitat and the second largest estuary in the mainland U.S. — warmed significantly. 

We spoke with Rosalind Echols, who gained her PhD from the School of Oceanography in Spring 2022 and is now pursuing her Postdoctoral Scholar studies at SAFS, as part of our Spotlight Series. Our Spotlight Series showcases the researchers at SAFS, how they got here, and the impact their research is having on the wider world.
Combining research with academic outreach, Rosalind pulls from her teaching background to engage a new generation of young scientists through the lens of “communities work together to learn”. 

A new Minor has been launched at SAFS. Explore the physical, biological, and social dimensions of freshwater ecosystems to help solve the sustainability challenges of today and tomorrow, with the Freshwater Science and Management Minor. 

Ending the year with a special outreach event, the Students Explore Aquatic Sciences (SEAS) group hosted the Seattle Aquarium Youth Ocean Advocate volunteers.
With a tour of SAFS, the UW Fish Collection and other labs in the College of the Environment, the group – made up of local high school students – had insight into the extensive research and scientific projects across UW’s marine science programs. 

We’re pleased to announce that the SAFS Cafe is starting back up for winter quarter 2023!
The SAFS faculty are pleased to host you for hot drinks and treats, and a chance to take a quick break from your day to catch up with colleagues.
When: Mondays at 2:30 – 3:30
Where: FISH second floor kitchen and patio
What should I bring? 

A huge congratulations to the winners of this year’s SAFS Outstanding Staff Awards.
Recognizing individuals who have brought enthusiasm, outstanding performance, and a special dedication to their roles, we’re happy to announce the two winners this year: Sam White and Verna Blackhurst.
Sam White – SAFS Outstanding Staff Award
A research scientist at SAFS since 2007, Sam White has been recognized for his dedication to mentoring students and staff both in labs and the wider community, his commitment to learning new approaches, and collaborative mentality which has contributed to the success of different research programs.