Quercus rubric

The scientific name for the red oak tree is Quercus rubra. The oak tree represents my interest in the large and small-scale details inherent in all biological systems--from the acorn to the oak tree; from the chemical structure of the poison in dart frogs to the selection processes that birthed it; from the evolution of humans on earth to the myriad ways we are interacting with nature.

The play on the word rubra--turned into rubric here--represents my commitment to public understanding of these details and processes. One definition of rubric is "introductory or explanatory commentary." Thus my goal as a science and environment writer is to explain the workings of nature and biology, and thereby help cultivate a greater understanding of and appreciation for the natural world.

The artwork
Tamara Clark, a freelance science illustrator and biologist, created the watercolor images of the oak tree and acorns. Her aim to "explore and celebrate the natural world" is aligned with my own, and as sisters we share an intrinsic ability to work as a team. If you are interested in Tamara's artwork you can visit her website or e-mail her. You can also ask me about contracting both of us!