Michael Ezban

Michael Ezban is an Associate Clinical Professor and Assistant Director of Graduate Architecture at the University of Maryland School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation. His work bridges architecture, landscape design, and ecology, focusing on multispecies urbanism and environments that foster human-animal entanglements. He holds a Master of Landscape Architecture (2013, Harvard University) and Master of Architecture (2007, University of Michigan), alongside a BS in Architecture (1998, University of Virginia).

His research explores aquaculture landscapes, resilient coastal systems, and equestrian facility design. Notable projects include a resilient design studio for Assateague Island (earning him the 2022 PALS Award) and collaborations with UMD’s School of Agriculture on a Livestock Teaching Pavilion. His 2019 book Aquaculture Landscapes won the 2020 JB Jackson Book Prize for groundbreaking contributions to landscape design theory.

• Scientific Awards: JB Jackson Book Prize, PALS Outstanding Faculty Award, Charles Eliot Traveling Fellowship
• Affiliations: reACT ThinkTank executive committee, AgroEcology Corridor Steering Committee

He advises interdisciplinary studios through UMD’s PALS program and collaborates across disciplines to address environmental and social challenges in built environments. His practice VanderGoot Ezban Studio focuses on research-driven design solutions.