Simon A. Levin

Tyler Prize Laureate 2014


Using mathematics to solve the problems of environmental degradation


Quick Facts

Born: April 22, 1941, Baltimore, Maryland, United States


Affiliation at the time of the award: Princeton University

Environmental achievement recognized: Recognized for his signal contributions to understanding complex systems in many fields, particularly for establishing and modelling fundamental concepts of conservation, and documenting the importance of adaptive systems for improved management of fisheries and forests.


Get to know Simon A. Levin


Meet the


Simon Levin is known for using mathematical modeling to show the complexity of ecosystems and interactions between species. His work impacted a wide variety of fields, among them environmental policy, resource management, healthcare, economics, and bioterrorism preparedness. An esteemed ecologist, Levin’s models revealed ecosystems to be complex adaptive systems driven by cooperation and competition. His research brought ecology and social science together, helping protect Earth systems through global collaboration.