About Us

MARK BELL

Dr. Mark Bell is a Visiting Assistant Professor and Research Scientist of Big Game Ecology at the Borderlands Research Institute. His research examines the impacts of invasive species on native big game populations, population management strategies, and human-wildlife conflicts that affect both ecological health and community well-being.

Dr. Bell earned his PhD in Wildlife Ecology from Utah State University, where he studied nest-site selection and breeding success of ducks in Great Salt Lake wetlands, annual migration behaviors of eared grebes, and aerial survey methods to estimate population abundance. He later became a postdoctoral researcher at Michigan State University, investigating waterfowl use of natural versus dammed wetlands to inform management and dam removal decisions. As a Boone and Crockett Fellow at MSU, he coauthored a major report on strategies to manage overabundant white-tailed deer populations in Michigan, including regulated commercial harvest and wild-meat donation programs. His work highlighted both ecological and social solutions, connecting wildlife management with food security for local communities.

At BRI, Dr. Bell continues building broad research interests in population dynamics, harvest ecology, and applied wildlife management. He has authored or coauthored nearly a dozen peer-reviewed articles and a book chapter. Beyond research, he is committed to mentoring students and helping them gain practical experience in conservation science. His long-term goal is to generate applied science that supports landowners, agencies, and communities in conserving West Texas wildlife and habitats.