Sean Menke

Sean Menke is a Professor of Biology at Lake Forest College. He holds a PhD in Biology from the University of California, San Diego (2007), an MS in Zoology from the University of Oklahoma (2002), and a BA in Biology from the University of Minnesota, Morris (1999). His research focuses on community ecology, biogeography, urban ecology, and myrmecology. Notably, he has conducted long-term studies on Argentine ant invasions and their ecological impacts, as well as urbanization effects on biodiversity. He collaborates widely, with over 100 co-authors across his publications.

Menke teaches courses such as Community Ecology, Biogeography, and Herpetology. His work spans global ant diversity studies, urban ecosystem analyses, and conservation strategies for avian mortality reduction. His recent studies include examining the role of climate and disturbance in shaping ant assemblages and evaluating green roof biodiversity potential.

His research has been published in high-impact journals like Conservation Biology, Ecology, and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. He has advised numerous students on ecological projects, including studies on ant community structures and urban wildlife interactions.