Susannah B. Lerman

Susannah B. Lerman is an Adjunct Research Professor in the Department of Environmental Conservation at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Her research focuses on reconciling urban development with conservation through socio-ecological approaches, emphasizing the interplay between human management of urban forests (yards, parks, open spaces) and native wildlife populations. She explores how urban ecosystems influence biodiversity and ecosystem services, aiming to bridge scientific findings with public engagement.

Education: Ph.D. in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology (2011), University of Massachusetts Amherst; M.S. in Conservation Biology (2005), Antioch University New England; B.S. in American History (1994), University of Delaware.

Her work emphasizes urban ecology, wildlife conservation in human-altered landscapes, and the role of biodiversity in delivering ecosystem services. She collaborates to translate scientific insights into actionable strategies for urban planners, policymakers, and the public.