To produce high quality research scientists and students (graduate and undergraduate) in areas of applied ecology and conservation, determined by peer reviewed publications, competitive grants, professional presentations at national forums, and awards. The impact of the Center will be broad and long-lasting due to collaboration with other research institutes and because the Center will be an international venue for meetings, workshops and cross-disciplinary activities related to applied ecology and conservation. To promote research programs that synthesize multiple levels of biological organization, from genes to environment and produce high quality research scientists and students (graduate and undergraduate) in areas of applied ecology and conservation.

* Increase the research productivity of our faculty in the field in applied ecology and conservation.

* Strengthen the participation of our undergraduate and graduate students in research activities.

* Expand the research infrastructure of the University of P.R.

* Foster long-term research collaborations among scientists within Puerto Rico and with national and international government and academic institutions.

* Ensure that funding continues after the CREST funding period.