Michael Louison

Michael Louison, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Biology at McKendree University, located in Voigt Science Hall. He holds a Ph.D. in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2018), an M.S. in Biology from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (2013), and a B.A. in Biology and Educational Studies from Ripon College (2007).

His research focuses on fisheries conservation, contemporary evolution of animals, behavioral and physiological responses to environmental stressors, and microplastic impacts on aquatic organisms. Key areas include angling effects on fish physiology, ice-fishing impacts, and fish social behavior.

Dr. Louison teaches courses such as Principles of Biology, Scientific Communication, Animal Behavior, and Conservation Biology. He emphasizes accessibility in teaching, prioritizing student engagement and mentorship opportunities. Professional affiliations include the Animal Behavior Society and American Fisheries Society.

His research has produced over 20 peer-reviewed publications since 2016, addressing topics like barotrauma mitigation, ice-fishing physiology, and microplastic exposure effects. He actively involves McKendree students in research, with multiple co-authorships noted in recent studies.