About
Dr. Gregory P. Lewis is a Professor and Chair of the Biology Department at Furman University. He holds a Ph.D. from Cornell University and a B.S. from Furman University. His research focuses on how land cover, urbanization, and human activities influence stream and river ecosystems, particularly in South Carolina's Piedmont and Blue Ridge regions. He collaborates extensively with students and colleagues through the River Basins Research Initiative, examining biogeochemical processes like nitrogen and carbon cycling, as well as pollution impacts from poultry farming and wastewater treatment. Dr. Lewis has led study abroad programs in Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Belize, emphasizing tropical and marine ecology. He is also an Affiliate Faculty member at the David Shi Center for Sustainability.
- Education: Ph.D., Cornell University; B.S., Furman University
Research interests include urban stream chemistry, antibiotic-resistant bacteria in polluted streams, and the effects of air pollution on nutrient supply. Collaborations with Dr. Min-Ken Liao address antibiotic resistance in urban streams. His work on wood abundance in streams and radiocesium dynamics in reservoirs highlights his interdisciplinary approach. Dr. Lewis has advised numerous undergraduate researchers, contributing to over 20 peer-reviewed publications since 2000.
His articles explore topics such as watershed topography effects, poultry farming impacts, and the efficacy of alternative teaching methods like Pecha Kucha presentations. While no major scientific awards are listed, his sustained contributions to environmental science education and fieldwork programs reflect his commitment to both research and pedagogy.
Dr. Lewis has secured grants supporting field studies and student research, particularly in urban stream biogeochemistry. His lab and fieldwork teams focus on South Carolina watersheds, integrating geology, ecology, and hydrology to address environmental challenges.
