J. Checo Colón-Gaud

J. Checo Colón-Gaud serves as Professor and Associate Dean at the Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies at Georgia Southern University's Department of Biology within the College of Science and Mathematics. His office is located in Bio Sci 3328 and he can be reached at (912) 478-0053.

Dr. Colón-Gaud earned his PhD from Southern Illinois University and his MS from Louisiana State University. His educational background has prepared him for his current research and teaching roles in aquatic ecology.

His research focuses on freshwater ecosystems, with particular emphasis on Coastal Plain rivers and wetlands in the southeastern United States. The Freshwater Ecology Lab he leads investigates how aquatic consumers (including invertebrates, fish, and amphibians) influence organic matter processing and energy flow in streams and other freshwater habitats. His work also examines the interactions between terrestrial and aquatic habitats, nutrient and energy subsidies, and the effects of both natural and anthropogenic disturbances on ecosystem processes. Dr. Colón-Gaud employs both field and laboratory methodologies to address fundamental and applied questions in aquatic ecology.

The Colón-Gaud lab is also committed to broadening participation in freshwater science and other STEM disciplines, reflecting a dedication to diversity and inclusion in scientific research and education.

As an educator, Dr. Colón-Gaud teaches Aquatic Ecology, Stream Ecology, and Graduate Seminar courses, mentoring the next generation of ecologists and environmental scientists.

His leadership extends beyond research and teaching as he serves as Associate Dean of the Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies, where he helps shape graduate education at Georgia Southern University.