The Applied Coastal Ecology (ACE) lab conducts collaborative research and outreach focused on the transition zone between land and sea. We examine biotic and abiotic processes underlying cross- habitat interactions. Research ranges from examining organism movement and nutrient/energy flow among terrestrial-coastal-subtidal systems; quantifying effects of human disturbance to one system (e.g., mangroves forests, terrestrial watersheds) on functioning and community composition of downstream ecosystems (e.g. coral reefs, subtidal rocky habitat); identifying distribution and effects of emerging contaminants on species and communities; understanding socio-ecological coastal systems such as marine reserves and coastal communities. We work with partners to conduct applied research relevant to management and policy and aimed conserving marine community and ecosystem processes and biodiversity.