Lauren S. Pile Knapp
Research Ecologist
United States Department of Agriculture Forestry Service
Bedford, IN USA
“Just because you decided that it’s what you wanted at that time, doesn’t mean you can’t change your mind.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationLauren S. Pile Knapp
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
Starting in psychology and bouncing between four universities, it took me nine years to find my calling in environmental science.
Overcoming a 1.67 GPA and other personal hardships, I transitioned from nearly dropping out of school to pursuing higher education relentlessly.
My unexpected detour into retail management equipped me with invaluable people skills, later proving crucial to my career in ecological research.
Despite financial hurdles, I followed my heart and transitioned from a steady job to the unpredictable path of forestry and environmental science.
I decided to pursue my Ph.D. in forestry, letting my passion drive me into a fulfilling science career.
In my role at the U.S. Forest Service, I've managed to blend my love for the outdoors with my passion for producing impactful research as I dedicate my work to conservation and habitat restoration.
Leading projects like creating pollinator habitats on log landings has allowed me to make tangible contributions to conservation, fueling my drive to make a difference in this world.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Graduate
Forest Resources
Clemson University
Forest Resources
Clemson University
Doctorate
Forest Resources
Clemson University
Forest Resources
Clemson University
Career
Research Ecologist
I transform landscapes into vibrant habitats, leading efforts that breathe life back into the earth.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Environment & Nature
Science
Accomplishing Goals
Day to Day
A typical day is highly variable. It could include spending the day outdoors measuring plants and trees, or indoors having meetings, mentoring students and technicians, analyzing data, and writing research articles or other forms of scientific communication.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for college students
My educational path is a good way to get into this type of work. Research positions often require a Ph.D. but it is okay to change directions along the educational pathway and still end up where you want to be. I also highly recommend actually trying out different things. It's hard to tell if you'll actually like something unless you try that job out.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
Challenges I Overcame
School Stress
Interviewed By
Crossroad Connections
Explore what career opportunities Indiana has to offer
