معرفی
Kelly Johnson is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Ohio University's College of Arts and Sciences, where she conducts research in insect physiological ecology and environmental stress responses. Her lab is located in Wilson Hall (107/109) on the Athens Campus, and she teaches courses including Animal Physiology, Field Entomology, and Animal Physiological Ecology.
Her research focuses on the impacts of acid mine drainage—such as acidity, sulfate, and elevated metals—on aquatic macroinvertebrates. She investigates sub-lethal physiological stress effects on feeding, energy use, and ecosystem functions like algal grazing and leaf litter processing. Her approach combines laboratory toxicity trials, metabolic measurements, mesocosm experiments using artificial stream channels, and extensive field surveys across eastern Ohio.
The publication trends reflect a strong focus on ecological recovery, environmental toxicology, and physiological adaptations in insects and aquatic organisms. Much of her work supports bioassessment and restoration efforts in impaired Appalachian streams, often in collaboration with watershed groups, the Voinovich School, and state and federal agencies.
Scientific Contributions:
- Long-term biological monitoring at over 70 sites in eastern Ohio
- Development of predictive models for ecological recovery
- Integration of lab and field data to assess remediation effectiveness
- Research on digestive physiology in herbivorous and detritivorous insects
Dr. Johnson advises student researchers and leads a dynamic research group. She has secured collaborative support for long-term ecological studies and contributes significantly to regional environmental restoration science. Her work bridges fundamental physiological research with applied ecological management.
She is actively involved in research and teaching with no indication of retirement or part-time status. Her laboratory infrastructure includes greenhouse-based artificial stream channels enabling year-round experimentation.
