Sean Giery

Sean Giery is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Ohio University, part of the College of Arts and Sciences. He joined the faculty in Fall 2023, bringing expertise in evolutionary ecology and eco-evolutionary dynamics. His research integrates evolutionary biology and community ecology to understand how phenotypic diversity shapes ecological systems under global change.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Ecology, North Carolina State University
• M.S., University of Hawai’i
• B.S. in Biology, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry

He previously served as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Connecticut (2017–2019) and an Eberly Research Fellow at Pennsylvania State University (2019–2023). His research leverages genomic data, stable isotopes, large datasets, and field experiments across vertebrate taxa to explore the reciprocal interactions between evolutionary and ecological processes. Key areas include intraspecific variation, adaptive radiation, and the ecological impacts of climate change and invasive species.

His recent publications reveal trends in eco-evolutionary feedbacks, particularly in salamanders, anoles, and fish. These studies employ mesocosm experiments, comparative analyses, and mechanistic modeling to investigate how phenotypic and genetic variation influence ecosystem function and species distributions. His work often bridges theoretical and applied ecology, with implications for conservation and restoration.

Scientific Awards:

• Eberly Research Fellowship, Pennsylvania State University (2019)

Dr. Giery has secured multiple grants, including an NSF grant to analyze long-term ecological and evolutionary data from The Bahamas and funding from the 1804 Fund to expand his mesocosm facility at Ohio University. These grants support experimental research on hurricanes’ impacts and enhanced capabilities for continuous monitoring of aquatic systems. He actively mentors students and has open PACE positions for undergraduate researchers focused on reptile and amphibian ecology. His lab is building a strong research program in eco-evolutionary dynamics.

Dr. Giery leads a research team that uses both natural and human-disturbed ecosystems to study the processes influencing population persistence and ecological function. His lab maintains a mesocosm facility for controlled experiments and collaborates widely, including with the Urban Lab and researchers in The Bahamas. The team investigates topics such as invasive species establishment, color polymorphism, and climate-driven range shifts.