Kimberly Heiman

Lecturer

New Science Building 002

484-664-3965

kheiman@muhlenberg.edu

Education

B. A. Biology, New College of the University of South Florida (now New College of Florida)

Ph.D. Biological Sciences, Stanford University

Postdoctoral research, Marine Biology and Ocean Resource Management, Oregon State University

Courses Taught

Concepts in Biology: Crisis Earth (BIO 111)

Concepts in Biology:  Human Biology, Science and Society (BIO 101)

Principles of Biology II Laboratory (BIO 151)

Principles of Biology III Laboratory (BIO 152)

Research Interests

My research focuses on how human activities interact with and alter the biological world. I primarily study human impacts on marine and estuarine habitats, as well as how to better manage the marine resources our society depends upon (such as fish stocks, healthy beaches, and clean water).  Specifically, I explore the interaction between invasive species and other human disturbances such as habitat alteration, particularly examining how this interaction can increase invasive species distributions and impacts within estuaries.  I also work on applying ecosystem approaches to the management of ocean resources.  At Muhlenberg, I am expanding my research to include human impacts on freshwater environments and working with non-profit organizations and local government to restore and manage our regional lakes, rivers, and streams.

Selected Publications
Heiman, K. W., Vidargas, N. and F. Micheli. 2008. Non-native habitat as a home for non-native species: Comparing communities associated with invasive tubeworm and native oyster reefs. Aquatic Biology 2: 47-56.

Stevenson, C., Katz L., Micheli, F., Block, B., Heiman, K. W., Weng, K., Perle, C., Dunbar, R., 2007. Apex predator depletion on coral reefs. Coral Reefs 26: 47-51.

Ruesink, J., Lenihan, H. S., Trimble A., Heiman, K. W., Micheli F., Byers J. E. Kay, M. C. 2005.Introduction of non-native oysters: ecosystem effects and restoration implications.Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics. 36: 643-698.