Brendan O'Neill

Brendan O'Neill serves as an Assistant Research Scientist and Lecturer at the University of Michigan's School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS), specializing in Ecosystem Science and Management with a focus on Conservation and Restoration.

His educational background includes a Ph.D. from Michigan State University's Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences (2017), an M.S. in Crop and Soil Science from Cornell University with specialization in soil microbiology (2007), and dual undergraduate degrees in Biology (B.S.) and Spanish (B.A.) from Indiana University (2000-2001).

O'Neill conducts vital research on soil systems and terrestrial microbial ecology, investigating how soil microbes regulate greenhouse gases and contribute to global carbon and water cycles. His work bridges basic research into soil microbial community formation with practical applications in sustainable land management and ecosystem services. Current research focuses on optimizing solar energy development through innovative land management practices that enhance soil health and biodiversity.

His publication record demonstrates consistent focus on soil carbon dynamics, microbial ecology in anthropogenic soils, and sustainable land management strategies. Recent work examines the integration of solar energy infrastructure with ecological restoration, particularly through pollinator-friendly vegetation beneath solar panels.

O'Neill actively mentors students, including SEAS master's student Haley Dalian who assisted with his solar garden research. His current projects include measuring soil health improvements and carbon sequestration potential at the Cadillac Solar Gardens, a former brownfield site transformed through collaboration between the City of Cadillac, State of Michigan, and Consumers Energy.

His research demonstrates that pollinator-friendly plant mixes beneath solar panels can double biomass productivity compared to standard turf grass, significantly enhancing carbon sequestration potential. The microclimate beneath solar panels creates favorable conditions for diverse plant species, offering opportunities to optimize both energy production and ecosystem services on solar sites across Michigan.