Mike Ross is an associate professor in in the University of Tennessee Department of Plant Sciences’ Sustainable Landscape Design concentration and in the School of Landscape Architecture. Originally trained as an organismal biologist and evolutionary ecologist Mike translates ecological systems and relationships into design and management strategies, particularly in management applications of time and systems interaction as design. With over 20 years of experience in design, restoration ecology, consultancy, and landscape management Mike’s research and applied design work focuses on the intersection of ecology and urbanism with emphasis on ecosystem services, green infrastructure, urban ecology, rewilding and biodiversity in design at a variety of scales.
RESEARCH
In his research, Mike Ross questions the role floating treatment wetlands can play in biodiversity enhancement, ecosystem services, and ecological function in urban and post-industrial waterways.
Teaching Focus: Engaging students in experiential and service learning, peer to peer learning and mentoring, multi and trans-disciplinary collaboration focused on sustainable landscape design, landscape architecture, and urban ecology.