Zachary T. Long
Assoc Professor
Dr. Zachary T. Long is an Associate Professor of Biology and Marine Biology at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where he investigates how species interactions shape community assembly, coexistence, and ecosystem functioning. He combines theoretical and experimental approaches across terrestrial and marine systems. Dr. Long’s research questions focus primarily on coastal ecology, biodiversity, food web dynamics, and ecological restoration. A dedicated educator, Dr. Long has earned major accolades including the 2025 UNC Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching and the 2024 Chancellor’s Excellence in Teaching Award, reflecting his long-standing commitment to student mentorship, applied learning, and community-engaged scholarship. Since joining UNCW in 2009, He has supervised over 100 student projects, secured significant research and education grants, and maintained an active research program that bridges fieldwork from North Carolina's coastal systems to international ecological contexts.
Education
Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
M.S. in Biological Sciences, Ecology and Evolution Program, University of Pittsburgh
B.S. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Pittsburgh