Jennifer A. Dodd

Dr. Jennifer A. Dodd PhD MCIEEM PGCHE is a Lecturer in Ecology and Conservation and co-lead of the Centre for Conservation and Restoration Science within the School of Applied Sciences at Edinburgh Napier University. She joined the university in October 2018 after establishing her own research consultancy in 2015 and completing postdoctoral positions at Cambridge University and the University of Glasgow.

Dr. Dodd's research focuses on freshwater conservation with emphasis on river restoration methods to reverse biodiversity decline and support resilient freshwater systems amid climate change. Her work examines ecological responses to channel re-configuration (re-meandering), non-native species impacts on freshwater biodiversity, and effects of potentially toxic elements on invasion likelihood. She collaborates with multiple partners through her role on the IUCN (UK) River Restoration & Biodiversity steering group and contributes to the BSI/CEN Standard for River Restoration.

Dr. Dodd's publication record demonstrates consistent expertise in freshwater ecology, invasive species dynamics, and river restoration. Her most recent work (2021-2025) focuses on integrated catchment restoration monitoring, shadow flicker impacts on salmon, and best practices for ecological assessment of river restoration projects. Earlier work (2011-2014) established her foundation in invasive species ecology, particularly regarding Dikerogammarus villosus impacts and leaf-litter processing in freshwater ecosystems.

As an educator, Dr. Dodd leads two 3rd year modules (Conservation Biology & Ecological Field Studies) contributing to three undergraduate degree programs, integrating her research experience and industry insights into practical student training.

Dr. Dodd currently supervises five doctoral students and leads significant research projects including the Easter Beltie Ecological Restoration Monitoring Research (2022-2027, £189,393, Scottish Government) and Marine Soundscapes and eDNA for Assessing Biodiversity (2021-2025, £53,490, NERC).