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Rudy Schuster, PhD

Dr. Schuster is Chief of the U.S. Geological Survey, Social & Economic Analysis (SEA) Branch, which leads projects that integrate social, behavioral, economic, and natural science in the context of human–natural resource interactions. 

Rudy has an undergraduate degree in geology and chemistry, MS in geography, and Ph.D. in the Human Dimensions of Natural Resource Management. He was an associate professor at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry on the Forest and Natural Resource Management Faculty before joining the federal government. Currently, Dr. Schuster is Chief of the U.S. Geological Survey, Social & Economic Analysis (SEA) Branch. The SEA Branch provides unique capabilities in the USGS by leading projects that integrate social, behavioral, economic, and natural science in the context of human–natural resource interactions. SEA has an interdisciplinary group of scientists whose primary functions are to conduct both theoretical and applied social science research, provide technical assistance, and offer training to support the development of skills in natural resource management activities. Rudy’s research interest focuses on conducting interdisciplinary science to inform public land management decision making.