Johanna Choo

Johanna Choo is an Associate Teaching Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell), part of the Kennedy College of Sciences. She serves as Treasurer of the Massachusetts Society of Professors (MSP). Her research focuses on Avian Biology, Fruit Nutrient Chemistry, and Plant Ecology, with a particular emphasis on tropical ecosystems and avian frugivory.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey (2005)
• Bachelor of Science in Botany and Science from the National University of Singapore (1996)

Research Interests: Johanna explores avian interactions with tropical flora, particularly fruit availability in rainforest ecosystems. Her work compares ecological patterns between Neotropical and Paleotropical regions, focusing on biodiversity assessment, mangrove bird communities, and pitcher plant symbiotic relationships. She has conducted extensive fieldwork in Peru, Malaysia, Singapore, and Borneo.

Awards & Recognition:

• Faculty Excellence Award for Undergraduate Teaching (2025)
• Department of Biological Sciences Teaching Excellence Award (2022)
• Holtrum Silver Medal (1996)

Professional Contributions: Johanna has presented at major conferences such as the American Ornithological Union and the Ecological Society of America. Her workshops focus on teaching strategies and grading tools like Gradescope. She has secured grants including a Post-doctoral Research Fellowship (2006-2008) with the Smithsonian Institution and a Wildlife Conservation Society Fellowship (2000).