About the College of
Earth, Life, and Health Sciences
About
The College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences at the University of Maine is a hub for discovery, education and collaboration in the social, health, life and environmental sciences.
Since our inception in 1868, faculty at the college have spearheaded the University of Maine’s land, and now sea and space grant missions. And since 1885, the Maine Agricultural and Forest Experiment Station has powered use-inspired research to fuel innovation in Maine’s businesses and communities. Today, this interdisciplinary hub supports faculty in half our schools and departments, and embodies one of our state’s largest applied research units.
In addition to our base in Orono, the college has a network of farms, forests, marine labs and facilities across what is now known as the State of Maine. There, our faculty experts partner with individuals, agencies, tribes, NGOs and others to develop practical, locally-based solutions to the most pressing issues and grand challenges of our time.
Our students develop real-world perspectives with hands-on opportunities in Maine’s forests, farms, fisheries, hospitals, schools, communities and businesses. From labs on campus where undergraduate students advance scientific discovery as a part of their coursework, to Alaska’s glaciers through the Juneau Icefield Research Program, our faculty help students develop the skills they need to thrive in their future careers.
We believe our faculty, staff, and students are our greatest asset. We strive to create an environment where each person’s unique attributes and perspectives are celebrated. We recognize and stand against systemic racism, violence and injustice, and are committed to the University of Maine’s core values of inclusion, diversity and anti-racism. We continually examine our organization, our actions and our role in rebuilding systems that are fair and equitable for all. Through this effort, we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive.
We appreciate your interest in our work and hope you will explore our website to learn more about science and student experiences that inspire our community.
Dean’s Welcome
Welcome to the College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences at the University of Maine.
It is a privilege to serve as Interim Dean of a college whose work touches so many aspects of life in Maine and beyond. Across ELH, our faculty, staff, and students are advancing knowledge and preparing the next generation of leaders in areas ranging from human health and communities to agriculture, natural resources, and the marine environment.
I have spent much of my career at the University of Maine, first as a student and later as a faculty member, researcher, and administrator. I am a Professor in the School of Marine Sciences and the Aquaculture Research Institute and, prior to becoming Interim Dean, served as Director of the School of Marine Sciences. My own research has focused broadly on the health and physiology of aquatic organisms, with particular emphasis on aquaculture and environmental physiology.
One of the things I value most about ELH is its remarkable breadth. While our disciplines are diverse, they share a commitment to discovery, education, and improving the lives of people and communities in Maine and beyond. I am particularly excited about the opportunities that emerge when we bring those different perspectives together.
As Interim Dean, I look forward to listening to and learning from our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners, and to working collaboratively to support the excellent teaching, research, and engagement taking place throughout the college.
Thank you for visiting ELH. I hope you will take some time to explore the people, programs, and work that make this college such an important part of the University of Maine.
Best regards,
Heather
Heather Hamlin, Interim Dean