Heidi Hawkins

My research interests are in plant nutrient physiology, plant-soil-microbe interactions, functional ecology, and ecosystem carbon, especially as they relate to conservation efforts in the face of global change. Reflecting this, my research focuses on conserving floral and faunal diversity in biodiversity hotspots of Southern Africa while maintaining and restoring ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, and improving livelihoods. Working in both a conservation organization and academia allow me to apply research to land-use guidelines, and policies in conservation. For example, in 2025 I worked with a team at the University of Cape Town to develop Africa-wide estimates of carbon mitigation when applying certain nature-based solutions, and these are being embedded in a science policy document that is being presented by Conservation International to global leaders at relevant meetings concerning climate and biodiversity. At the same time, I use my experience with a grass-roots conservation organisation to develop and give input into curricula at the tertiary education level to make these relevant to the workplace, e.g., the Sustainable Agriculture MSc. Course at Stellenbosch University, South Africa.