David Tilman studies the causes, consequences and conservation of Earth’s biodiversity. He was among the first to reveal the important role biodiversity serves in maintaining healthy, productive and resilient ecosystems. 

Tilman seeks to understand how managed and natural ecosystems can sustainably meet human needs for food, energy and ecosystem services. His current research explores ways to use biodiversity as a tool for biofuel production and climate stabilization. He has also dedicated much of his career to communicating with the public, politicians and the managers of Earth’s ecosystems in policy contexts.