Melissa Ranhofer

Melissa Ranhofer is a Lecturer in the Department of Earth, Environmental, and Sustainability Sciences at Furman University. Her research focuses on phytoplankton community dynamics, nutrient cycling, and invasive aquatic species, particularly the Asian clam Corbicula fluminea. She emphasizes bioremediation strategies to improve water quality in eutrophic systems. Dr. Ranhofer is also an award-winning educator, having received accolades such as the 2017 Outstanding Undergraduate Evening Studies Faculty Award.

Education: Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in geological, environmental, and marine sciences from the University of South Carolina, Columbia. Her teaching philosophy centers on engaged learning, preparing students to address real-world environmental challenges through critical thinking.

Professional Activities: Educational outreach liaison for the EES Department's Facebook page, member of the Carolina Geological Society, and frequent presenter at science symposia. She has conducted extensive field and laboratory research on estuarine ecosystems and nutrient dynamics.

Research Trends: Her work bridges marine and freshwater systems, addressing invasive species impacts and sustainable water management. Recent publications in Estuaries and Coasts highlight her focus on phytoplankton-nutrient interactions and estuarine ecology.

Community Engagement: Engages in outreach through guest lectures at schools and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, emphasizing phytoplankton's ecological role and bioremediation potential. She has judged science fairs and led field trips to Winyah Bay, SC.