Patricia Ramey-Balci

Patricia Ramey-Balci is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Manitoba's Faculty of Science. As a marine benthic community ecologist, her research examines how natural and anthropogenic physical/biological processes influence invertebrate diversity, community structure, and population dynamics across intertidal zones, estuaries, coastal oceans, mud volcanoes, and cold seeps. Her work directly informs marine ecosystem monitoring and management strategies.

• Topical Research Areas: Invasive species, biotic interactions, behavior, biodiversity, environmental change, ecological indicators
• Editorial Roles: Associate Editor for Marine Biology and Estuaries & Coasts

Research Methodology: Combines field surveys with controlled laboratory experiments to analyze spatial/temporal patterns. Key study systems include:

• Invasive marine crabs (European green crab and Asian shore crab)
• Cold seep and mud volcano ecosystems
• Benthic community responses to environmental stressors

Lab Contributions: The Ramey-Balci Lab trains students in crab physiology, diet analysis, behavioral ecology, and benthic community assessment. Current projects span Nova Scotia invasive species studies, Arctic biodiversity mapping, and Mediterranean cold seep research.

Grant Support: Students have received NSERC USRA, Faculty of Science USRA, and URA awards for field and laboratory work.