Steve Archer’s research focuses on interactions between grasses and woody plants in relation to soils, climate and disturbance. He uses population, transition probability and dynamic ecosystem simulation models in conjunction with remote sensing, GIS, dendrochronology and stable isotope chemistry to reconstruct vegetation history and to examine potential, impending changes. Field and laboratory experiments on the population biology of grasses and shrub growth forms are emphasized in the context of landscape ecology, succession, and historical land-use practices.

Work in development of IPM and environmental impacts of Gm crops at the University of Arizona since 1998. Member of several national and international committees interested in assessment of environmental impacts of GM crops.