Steven Rier

Steven Rier is a Professor of Biology in the Department of Biological and Health Sciences at Bloomsburg University, affiliated with the Watershed Ecology Center (WEC). His research spans stream ecosystem dynamics, algal-microbial interactions, and water pollution impacts across diverse freshwater environments.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Environmental Biology from the University of Louisville

Research Focus: Dr. Rier's work centers on Stream Ecosystem Ecology, examining nutrient cycling (particularly phosphorus), organic matter decomposition, and biofilm-algal dynamics. His Algal and Microbial Ecology research investigates polyphosphate roles in periphyton and enzyme-mediated processes. In Water Pollution studies, he analyzes agricultural runoff, coal mine drainage, and invasive species impacts, developing monitoring methods for watershed management.

Publication Trends: His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on experimental freshwater ecology, emphasizing phosphorus gradients, biofilm functionality, and anthropogenic stressors. Key themes include nutrient enrichment effects, decomposition mechanisms, and indicator development for stream health assessment, bridging fundamental ecology with applied water resource management.

Grants:

• Evaluating Headwater Biodiversity, Vulnerability, and Potential Resilience to Inform Conservation in the Delaware Basin (National Fish and Wildlife Federation, $43,912)
• Evaluating the climate resilience of headwaters and potential downstream effects (PA DEP Growing Greener, $37,704)
• Measuring performance of best management practices in the Susquehanna River Watershed (National Fish and Wildlife Federation, $115,000)
• Water quality investigations at Bloomsburg University (Degenstein Foundation, $25,000)

Research Infrastructure: As a core member of Bloomsburg University's Watershed Ecology Center, Dr. Rier directs field studies and laboratory analyses focused on watershed science, utilizing the WEC's facilities for stream ecosystem research and student training.