Congratulations Dr. Brauner!

Dr. Soren Brauner, Professor of Biology, was recently recognized for 25 years of service to Ashland University by our President, Fred Finks.  Dr. Brauner joined the Department of Biology/Toxicology in 1986 after earning his BA in environmental science and MA in botany from the University of California at Santa Barbara and his PhD in genetics from the University of California at Davis.  He conducts research with AU students on the population genetics of invasive reed canary grass in the University's Black Fork Wetland Preserve.  Dr. Brauner's lab is currently developing molecular biology techniques for investigating the genetic structure of these grass populations to better understand how they spread in non-native habitats.

In addition to his research and courses in molecular and cellular biology, genetics and botany, Dr. Brauner recently ended a long term as the Director of Ashland University's Environmental Science Program.  He was instrumental in securing significant government and foundation funding for development of our environmental preserves, and planning for our environmental lecture series, which is entering its 20th year.