Meg Lowman

Margaret "Meg" D. Lowman is an American biologist, educator, ecologist, and writer with a wealth of experience in canopy ecology and canopy plant-insect relationships. Known as "Canopy Meg", Lowman has been at the forefront of constructing canopy walkways to help scientists study insect pests and ecosystem health in forests. Her passion for canopy research has led to the development of innovative tools like hot-air balloons for treetop exploration. She has authored several books, including "Life in the Treetops" (1999), "It's a Jungle Up There" (2006), and "The Arbornaut" (2021), and has published more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific publications.

Lowman's leadership roles extend to various organizations such as the Ecological Society of America, Association for Tropical Biology and Conservation, and The Explorers Club. In her current post as the Director of Global Initiatives and Senior Scientist for Plant Conservation at the California Academy of Sciences, she continues to champion scientific research and exploration programs. Prior to this, Lowman served as the Chief of Science & Sustainability at the California Academy of Sciences, the research professor at North Carolina State University, and the founding director of North Carolina's Nature Research Center at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences.

Lowman's commitment to education and conservation shines through in her work. She co-founded the TREE Foundation, which supports tree research, exploration, and education initiatives. She also launched Mission Green, a project aimed at building 10 canopy walkways in the world's most biodiverse forests over the next five years. Lowman's dedication to conservation education has been recognized with multiple awards, including the Kilby Laureate, Mendel Medal for Science and Spirit, Williams College Bicentennial Medal, and Garden Club of America Award for Achievements in Conservation Education.