Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson, PhD is a Professor of Geography and Chair of the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Ferris State University. She is also affiliated with the College of Arts, Sciences and Education.

• Education: PhD and MA in Geography (Climatology focus) from Arizona State University, BA in Geography and Mathematics with a minor in German from Carthage College.
• Expertise: Climatology, urban heat signatures, classroom design, and interdisciplinary education.

Her research focuses on climatological patterns such as lake effect snowfall and urban heat islands, alongside pedagogical innovations like game-based learning and conflict management in classrooms. She has presented extensively at academic conferences, including the Association of American Geographers and National Council for Geographic Education.

Scientific Awards

• National Science Foundation Research Fellowship
• Ferris State Distinguished Teacher Award (2014)
• Ferris State Distinguished Service Award (2018)

Dr. Johnson leads the Ferris State University Learn Lab and has contributed to teacher certification reforms in Michigan. She actively integrates climate science with crime studies in her interdisciplinary work.