Jennifer Frick-Ruppert

Dr. Jennifer Frick-Ruppert serves as Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty at Brevard College, while holding the Dalton Professorship in Biology and Environmental Science. She earned her Ph.D. and B.S. in Biology from Clemson University. Her research focuses on natural history, invertebrate biology, and environmental science, with notable contributions to firefly behavior, coastal ecosystems, and educational outreach. She has authored books on Southern Appalachian ecology and coastal studies, as well as peer-reviewed articles on echinoderms and lancelet aquaculture.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Biology, Clemson University
  • B.S. in Biology, Clemson University
• Key Research Interests:
  • Natural history of mountain and coastal ecosystems
  • Reproductive biology of marine invertebrates
  • Development of science education curricula

Her publications span disciplines from entomology to aquaculture, with a focus on ecological conservation and public understanding of science. She has led initiatives like the Pisgah Forest Institute’s educational programs for K-12 educators. Her work integrates field-based research with community engagement, emphasizing the intersection of environmental science and pedagogy.