Chris Heggerud’s research lies at the intersection of mathematics and ecology, utilizing mathematical tools to address pressing ecological questions stemming from societal, economic, and environmental concerns. His current work focuses heavily on transient dynamics from both mathematical and ecological perspectives. Specifically, he applies existing dynamical systems literature and empirical dynamical modeling to predict and understand transient behavior within ecological data. His previous research involved extensive study of phytoplankton dynamics, employing dynamical systems and singular perturbation theory to uncover the mechanisms behind algal blooms. Additionally, he has utilized game theory, bifurcation theory, and spatial modeling to investigate complex human-environment interactions and species diversity through niche differentiation.