Stephen J. Tonsor, a University of Pittsburgh associate professor in the department of biological sciences, has been named the new director of science and research for Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Oakland.

Mr. Tonsor, who joins the museum Jan. 2, also will lead the Center for Biodiversity and Ecosystems. An expert in plant biodiversity, he will work with scientists who conduct research in botany, birds, reptiles and amphibians, mollusks and invertebrate zoology. One of his tasks will be to oversee interdisciplinary research by the museum's scientists. He also will work with museum staff to integrate current science into exhibitions.

John Wenzel will continue to serve as director of Powdermill Nature Reserve, a 2,250-acre field station the museum operates in Rector, just outside of Ligonier in Westmoreland County. Since 1951, scientists have conducted research at Powdermill.

Mr. Tonsor, who lives in Highland Park, directed field research at the University of Pittsburgh's Pymatuning Laboratory of Ecology in Linesville from 1995 through 2001. From 1985 to 1995, he was on the Michigan State faculty at its W.K. Kellogg Biological Station.

First Published: November 19, 2014, 9:16 p.m.