Jonathan T. Fingerut serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Biology at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia, where he also directs the Environmental Science and Sustainability Program. His research integrates hydrodynamics and behavioral ecology to investigate spatial distribution patterns of aquatic invertebrates, with dual focus on black fly larvae in stream ecosystems and invasive spotted wing drosophila in agricultural contexts. His academic foundation includes: BA in Biology (1994) from Cornell University PhD in Biology (2003) from the University of California, Los Angeles Dr. Fingerut's research program examines how flow environments shape invertebrate ecology through two primary avenues: (1) silk-mediated dispersal mechanisms in Simulium tribulatum larvae that enable habitat selection in turbulent streams, and (2) population dynamics of Drosophila suzukii affecting soft fruit crops. His work bridges fluid mechanics, entomology, and ecological theory to address fundamental questions about larval settlement while providing applied insights for invasive species management. Laboratory exercises developed in his biomechanics research demonstrate his commitment to innovative science education. Analysis of his 14 publications (2003-2015) reveals consistent emphasis on hydrodynamic-biological interactions across freshwater and marine systems. Key contributions include elucidating silk's role in larval dispersal, quantifying flow effects on invertebrate behavior, and developing novel methods for studying aquatic ecosystems. His collaborative approach—evident in partnerships with the McRobert lab on drosophila research—produces transdisciplinary insights spanning from molecular tagging techniques to ecosystem engineering. He leads an active research laboratory investigating silk production mechanisms in black flies and overwintering strategies of invasive drosophila. Current projects combine field observations with controlled experiments to understand how climate change may alter hydrodynamic constraints on aquatic invertebrates while developing sustainable management approaches for agricultural pests through population genetics studies.
