Stephen C. Mason, Jr.

Stephen Mason, Jr. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Natural Sciences at Immaculata University. He also serves as a Research Associate in the Entomology Department at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia and as a Science Advisor for the National Audubon Society at Hog Island, Maine.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Community Ecology, Drexel University, 2021
• BS in Environmental Science, Stockton University, 2009

Dr. Mason's research centers on ecological community responses to disturbances, with a specialization in fire ecology. He examines how fire characteristics (severity, seasonality, frequency) affect insect communities, particularly in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, at both global and local scales. His work aims to inform conservation strategies, habitat restoration, and protection of rare species by linking fire management to biodiversity outcomes.

Analysis of his publications reveals a consistent focus on fire's impact on insects, especially bees, butterflies, and ground beetles, through meta-analyses and field experiments. Additional research areas include butterfly host plant associations, digital collection management, and science communication during the pandemic. His interdisciplinary approach integrates entomology, conservation biology, and fire science to address biodiversity challenges.

His scientific awards include:

• NSF REU Fellowship
• New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Conserve Wildlife Matching Grant
• Claudio Elia Memorial Fellowship

Dr. Mason mentors undergraduate students in hands-on research, resulting in numerous conference presentations. He has secured grants from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the Claudio Elia Foundation to support fire ecology and insect biodiversity studies. Collaborations with the National Audubon Society and New Jersey Conservation Foundation enhance the real-world application of his research.

He is actively involved with the Academy of Natural Sciences' Entomology Department, contributing to collection management and research. Field projects at Hog Island and the New Jersey Pine Barrens form the core of his team's work, providing students with practical experience in ecology and conservation.