Matthew Dougherty

Rev. Matthew Dougherty, O. Praem., is an Assistant Professor of Biology at St. Norbert College. His research focuses on aquatic ecosystems, including keystone species dynamics, eco-evolutionary feedbacks, and environmental DNA (eDNA) applications for ecosystem management. He emphasizes hands-on research experiences for undergraduates in both field and lab settings.

Education: B.S. in Organismal Biology (St. Norbert College); M.Div. and M.A. in Systematic Theology (Catholic Theological Union); M.S. and Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (Yale University).

Teaching Responsibilities: Courses include BIOL 120 (Cellular & Molecular Biology), BIOL 121 (Organismal Biology), and BIOL 225 (Ecology).

Research Interests: Limnology, keystone species interactions, intraspecific variation, and eDNA-based conservation strategies. Recent work explores alewife population dynamics and invasive species detection in freshwater systems.

Advising and Grants: Collaborates with undergraduates on research projects but no specific grants or awards listed in the provided text.