Alumni Spotlight: Thomas (Tom) Rosburg
Thomas (Tom) Rosburg earned his PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Iowa State University in 1994. He is currently Professor of Biology at Drake University and remains closely connected to EEOB through collaboration and teaching. Below, Tom reflects on his time at Iowa State and shares advice for current students in his own words.
What is your current professional role?
“Professor of Biology, Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa.
Collaborating Faculty, Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University (I have served on the POS of 5 students).
Visiting Professor, Iowa Lakeside Laboratory Field Station.”
How did your time in EEOB help prepare you for your career?
“In so many ways. There was the rigor and content in the many courses I took. It was important for the foundational knowledge of ecology, biology, and evolution, but also as an example of what a college-level course should look like, which has helped me develop my own courses.
My research and the research I did for my mentor as a research assistant was essential. It was the beginning of ‘defining’ who I am now — a plant ecologist specializing in Midwestern ecosystems (notably prairie). The teaching that I did in Ecology lab and Field Botany lab was important in developing teaching skills.”
What advice would you offer to current EEOB students?
“Work hard, stay focused your research, seek opportunities to interact with faculty, attend conferences when possible, take courses that will help you reach your goals, join the Iowa Academy of Science (to support science here in Iowa).”
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in EEOB?
“Many — a big one is the travel seminars that I was able to participate in. These were with a group of graduate students and a couple of faculty. One was Winter Ecology in Yellowstone Park (1988). Another was a trip to the Southwestern Research Station located in the Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona.
Another is the friendship and camaraderie that was present among the EEB grad students. Being able to discuss the challenges and questions encountered in research or classes with peers.”
What is a fun fact or recent achievement you would like to share?
“In November 2023, I was among six people named as the first Iowa Nature Champions…
In May 2025, I was named as the first recipient of the Madelyn Levitt Scholar of the Year, by Drake University.”