Dirk Vanderklein

Dirk Vanderklein is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Montclair State University, affiliated with the College of Science and Mathematics and the PSEG Institute for Sustainability Studies. He holds a BS and MS from the University of Washington and a PhD from the University of Minnesota.

His research focuses on plant-environment interactions, including Japanese knotweed's impact on water resources, urban tree health, carbon cycling in forests, and supporting first-generation STEM students. Collaborations include work with Dr. Josh Galster (Earth and Environmental Studies) and Dr. Karina Schäfer (Rutgers University-Newark). Recent findings indicate Japanese knotweed may reduce local summer water supplies by up to 9%, prompting watershed-scale investigations.

Teaching responsibilities include BIOL113 (Principles of Biology 2), BIOL213 (Ecology), and BIOL425/520 (Plant Physiology), emphasizing active learning through projects, labs, and reflective practices. He participates in Montclair State’s Engaged Teaching Mentors Program to promote deep learning strategies.

Grants include NSF-funded projects like STEM Pioneers (2016-2021) to boost STEM enrollment among first-generation students. Research outputs span plant physiology, urban ecology, and interdisciplinary education initiatives.

Labs/Teams: Collaborations with Duke Farms, New Jersey environmental agencies, and the PSEG Institute for Sustainability Studies.