Michael Benard

Michael Benard is a Professor and Department Chair of Biology at Case Western Reserve University. He focuses on understanding how environmental changes affect organisms, particularly amphibians, which are critical indicators of ecological health.

• Ph.D., Population Biology, University of California, Davis (2005)
• B.S., Biology, Cornell University (1999)

His research integrates natural and human-caused environmental disturbances, such as habitat destruction and climate change, to develop conservation strategies for threatened species and management plans for invasive ones. Key areas include:

• Amphibian ecology and global decline drivers
• Phenological shifts under climate change
• Impact of artificial light pollution on development
• Photoperiod effects in freshwater communities

Recent publications highlight his work on amphibian breeding behavior, climate change impacts, and ecological interactions in disturbed environments.