Katherine Greenwald

Katherine Greenwald is a Professor in the Biology Department at Eastern Michigan University, affiliated with the Environmental Science and Society (ENVI) Interdisciplinary Program. Her office is located in the Science Complex at 401N, Ypsilanti, MI.

Education:

• BS, Brown University, 2002
• Ph.D., Ohio State University, 2009

Her research focuses on molecular ecology and conservation biology, using amphibians as environmental indicators. She specializes in applying molecular genetic tools to study population isolation in fragmented landscapes and the unique reproductive system of unisexual Ambystoma salamanders (kleptogenesis), which has persisted for five million years. Her work bridges ecological theory with practical conservation applications.

Analysis of her publication record reveals consistent emphasis on amphibian conservation genetics, with recurring themes including environmental DNA monitoring, phylogeography of mudpuppies, and ecological dynamics of sexual versus unisexual salamander populations. Her research integrates landscape ecology, evolutionary biology, and molecular techniques to address conservation challenges.

Dr. Greenwald actively mentors students and encourages undergraduate and graduate participation in her research projects. She teaches Conservation Biology (BIO 417/517) every Fall and Herpetology (BIO 484/584) every Summer, covering evolutionary principles and amphibian biology.

She leads the Greenwald Lab, which conducts field and laboratory research on amphibian population genetics, habitat connectivity, and the conservation implications of kleptogenesis, maintaining strong connections with students and collaborators.