Phil Burton is a Registered Professional Biologist (RPBio) and a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management at the University of Northern British Columbia. He also has served as a manager with the Canadian Forest Service during the Mountain Pine Beetle Initiative and has worked as an environmental consultant. Phil’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in biology and land use studies from the University of Saskatchewan, followed by the completion of his Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in the United States. After his studies, Phil taught various courses in plant biology, silviculture, forest policy, conservation biology, ecological restoration, disturbance ecology, and integrated resource management at UBC, UVic, and UNBC.
Phil’s research program over four decades has focused on the disturbance and recovery of vegetation. The resulting scientific papers and book contributions address the ecology and management of forests and grasslands, emphasizing options to bridge their conservation and use. In recent years, his work has focused increasingly on the impacts of and adaptation to a changing climate. Ongoing research is attempting to better understand the behaviour of wildfires.
Phil divides his time between a home in Terrace and a cabin outside of Smithers.
