Staff Spotlight: Matt Gruntorad

Meet Matt Gruntorad, Human Dimensions Analyst in the School of Natural Resources.
Meet Matt Gruntorad, Human Dimensions Analyst in the School of Natural Resources.

What is your position at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

I am a Human Dimensions Analyst in the School of Natural Resources. I conduct research focused on satisfaction and motivations of hunters and anglers.

What drew you to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

I grew up in Nebraska enjoying all of the beautiful fish and wildlife. Ultimately, I wanted to invest my work in supporting the hunters and anglers in our state.

What aspect of working in an educational setting do you enjoy the most?

Of course I enjoy seeing my work published and findings applied to wildlife management, but helping graduate students get their research out there and seeing them succeed is probably the most enjoyable aspect of working in an educational setting.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Professionally, there is one paper that I’m particularly proud of: Assessing what makes different types of hunting activities satisfying to Nebraska hunters, but I like to think my years spent introducing families to fishing, while working for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, improved a lot of lives and led to many treasured memories.

What is something that most people don’t know about you?

I once played trombone in the Cornhusker Marching Band.

What is your life like outside of work?

I spend most of my time outside of work with my wife and 8-year-old twins. We’ve got a big summer planned loaded with lots of swimming, fishing, and camping. When I can make time, my favorite activity is duck hunting.