Driven by a love of birds and a belief in inclusive science, Lauren Pharr has combined field research, conservation and advocacy to make lasting impacts on both wildlife and the scientific community.
Now, as she prepares to graduate, Pharr looks toward the future with both excitement and determination, while also looking back on her transformation from an undergraduate to a leader in wildlife research and science communication.
Pharr’s journey began at Wingate University. As an undergraduate, she developed a passion for avian ecology while studying the Chinese blue-breasted quail, which eventually led her to pursue a master’s in fisheries, wildlife and conservation biology at NC State.
Under the direction of Caren Cooper in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, Pharr focused her master’s thesis on the effects of urban noise and light pollution on avian health and survival.
Pharr completed her master’s degree in 2021 and enrolled in the Ph.D. in Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology program, focusing this time on partial brood loss in red-cockaded woodpecker populations.
Partial brood loss, a phenomenon where some nestlings within a brood die but not all, has increased in recent years, with some scientists pointing to climate change and population density as potential factors.
As part of her dissertation research, Pharr examined partial brood loss in red-cockaded woodpeckers across three long-term sites in North Carolina and Florida, focusing on potential causes like competition, climate change and nest conditions.
Pharr’s research found no link between brood loss and population density. In fact, she found that partial brood loss in red-cockaded woodpeckers is driven more by brood size inequality and environmental factors than by population density.
These insights highlight key factors for sustaining red-cockaded woodpeckers in a changing climate and can guide future conservation strategies for this species, according to Pharr.
Making Science Clear and Accessible
Pharr’s research and conservation efforts have gained significant public attention over the years, appearing in numerous television segments, magazine articles, blog posts and other media, promoting awareness and advocacy.
Notably, Pharr appeared on PBS’s acclaimed “Sci NC” show, where she shared insights into her research on the red-cockaded woodpecker, explaining the research process and its significance for conservation efforts.
Beyond her research, Pharr is an accomplished science communicator whose writing has appeared in National Geographic, WIRED, BBC Wildlife and other leading publications, reaching a wide and diverse audience.
She has also served as a freelance writer for The Nature Conservancy, a contributing editor for North Carolina Sea Grant, and a member of the Editorial Advisory Board for The Wildlife Society.
Pharr is also a strong advocate for expanding access and belonging in STEM. In 2022, she co-founded Field Inclusive, a nonprofit organization that supports historically excluded individuals in the natural sciences.
Her dedication to this cause is further reflected in her research; she served as editor and a contributing author of “Inclusive Nature: Science, Equity and the Outdoors,” forthcoming from Johns Hopkins University Press in 2026.
Leading the Way in Wildlife Research
Pharr’s leadership and advocacy have earned her multiple honors, including the 2023 Governor’s Conservation Achievement Award for Young Conservationist of the Year — one of the highest wildlife honors in North Carolina — as well as the 2024 NC State Equity for Women Award.
Reflecting on her experience at NC State, Pharr said the College of Natural Resources “provided an exceptional environment to blend rigorous scientific training, hands-on field experience, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.”
“I was encouraged to think critically, lead research independently, and communicate science in accessible ways — all skills that have shaped my career as both a behavioral ecologist and science communicator,” she added.
Pharr thanked numerous faculty, staff and students who supported her during her time at NC State, including Chris Moorman, Kaly Wall, Deja Perkins, Murry Burgess, and many others who contributed to her growth and success.
Looking ahead, Pharr plans to pursue a postdoctoral or faculty position at a university in hopes of continuing her research on red-cockaded woodpeckers and other cooperative breeding birds, studying behavioral ecology, social structure and climate impacts within long-term study populations.
When asked for advice to students, Pharr emphasized the importance of remaining open to growth, building supportive relationships, and embracing interdisciplinary opportunities that enrich both research and professional development.
Pharr also encouraged students to recognize the value of their own perspectives and to approach their work authentically. “Remember that your voice and perspective matter in this field; bring your full self into your work and let your passions guide your research journey.
This post was originally published in College of Natural Resources News.
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