Professor of Landscape Architecture, University of Massachusetts

Dr. Jack Ahern

Jack Ahern is a professor of landscape architecture at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. His research and teaching focuses on the application of urban landscape ecology theory in cities to provide ecosystem services and build resilience capacity. His recent publications advance theory on applied urban ecology, supported by case studies and precedents from professional practices in the US, Europe and Asia. He is currently focusing on new theories of “novel urban ecosystems” to better understand how “new nature” in contemporary cities can be understood, classified, designed and managed for beauty and to provide ecosystem services. Jack consults on plant community establishment and management for leading design firms – integrating his horticultural, design and ecological knowledge in the cause of making memorable landscapes.