Ivan Phillipsen

Ivan is a passionate naturalist with a background in scientific research. He has participated in studies of a diverse assortment of organisms: aspen trees, cactus wrens, aquatic snails, frogs, and beetles. He holds a M.S. in biology from Cal State San Bernardino and a Ph.D. in zoology from Oregon State University. The population genetics of freshwater animals was his area of focus. He has published a series of papers on the evolutionary biology of amphibians and aquatic insects. Ivan’s scientific work invariably involved backpacking into remote wilderness areas to find his secretive research subjects in their natural habitats.

Having left the academic world, Ivan is now a professional naturalist-- teaching and serving as an interpretive guide. Ivan’s primary area of expertise is the natural history of western North America. Natural history is Ivan’s true passion and what he is most excited to teach to others. Although he is fascinated by just about every aspect of nature, Ivan is particularly fond of reptiles, amphibians, birds, invertebrates, plants, fungi, and rocks (i.e. geology). Everything is interconnected in nature and Ivan does his best to take a holistic approach when teaching about the natural world.

Ivan and his wife live near Portland, Oregon, surrounded by the diverse natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest. He has spent countless days exploring the trails and wild places of the region. When he isn’t working on board a Lindblad Expeditions ship, he is often leading small-group Eco tours around the northwest and overseas. When Ivan has some free time, he enjoys nature photography, digital illustration, backpacking, and working in the yard.