Dennis C. Haney

Dennis C. Haney serves as Professor of Biology and Chair of the Biology Department at Furman University, a position he has held since 2010. He joined Furman in 1996 after completing his Ph.D. at the University of Florida and working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, establishing himself as a key figure in organismal physiology research.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D., University of Florida
• M.S., Oregon State University
• B.A., University of California, San Diego

Dr. Haney specializes in environmental and comparative physiology, with research focused on physiological responses of fish to environmental stressors including salinity changes, temperature fluctuations, drought, and pollution. His interdisciplinary work involves collaborations with Earth and Environmental Sciences colleagues through the River Basins Research Initiative, examining land use impacts on South Carolina upstate fish populations. Current projects blend field studies in watersheds like the Reedy-Saluda with laboratory experiments on osmoregulation and metabolic responses.

His publication record reveals consistent investigation into fish adaptation mechanisms across changing environments, with research spanning fundamental physiological processes to ecosystem-level impacts of urbanization and industrial activities. Much of this work centers on South Carolina watersheds and features undergraduate co-authors, reflecting his commitment to student involvement.

Dr. Haney has been honored with the Henry Keith and Ellen Hard Townes Professorship (2001-2003), recognizing his scholarly contributions.

He has mentored over 200 undergraduate researchers, co-authoring six publications and 50+ conference presentations with students. Beyond student mentorship, he created and coordinates Furman's faculty development mentor program and chairs the Faculty Development Committee, while also serving in leadership roles for the Association of Southeastern Biologists.

His research activities are organized through the River Basins Research Initiative, which fosters interdisciplinary collaboration to study human-environment interactions in South Carolina river basins.