University of Dayton Biology Department

 Ryan McEwan

Assistant Professor

Office: SC-302A/341

Phone: (937) 229-2558/2567

Curriculum Vitae

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Research:  Environmental Ecology

One of the yet-to-be learned lessons in the history of the world is that understanding how ecosystems work is necessary for the flourishing of human societies.  A failure to understand the limits of our resource base, or the value of biodiversity, has consistently led to economic and social problems, and sometime societal decline.  Throughout history, this lesson has been repeated over, and over, and over again.  Yet we remain stuck with a "boom and bust" approach to natural resources, unthinking exploitation - then - "crisis!" 

Research in my lab attempts to further understanding of how ecosystems work.  In particular, we recognize that ecosystems are constantly changing.  They respond to changes in environmental conditions, to dynamics among existing species, and to introductions of new species.  As ecosystems change in response to these factors, their capacity to support biodiversity and to provide ecosystem services (e.g., clean water) is altered.  We attempt to understand ecosystem dynamics, their drivers, and the implications of these dynamics.

Research in my lab is focused on plants, plant communities, and ecosystem processes.  Long-term perspective on ecosystem dynamics is achieved through the analysis of tree rings, and permanent plots.  Ongoing research includes studies that explore the role of historical disturbances (such as fire) in ongoing forest dynamics.  We are also interested in the impacts of invasive species on native plant communities.  Work in the lab is increasingly focused on developing methods to restore degraded ecosystems.  We work to build collaborations with others in the academic community, with resource managers, and decision makers.  Work in my lab seeks to further scientific understanding of important ecological processes and build understanding that can directly influence natural resource management (is applicable to real environmental problems).