Uploaded February 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 days ago
Meet the Faculty: Dr. Hannah Reich — Microalgae, Symbiosis & Teaching at ESF
Get to know Dr. Hannah Reich, Assistant Professor of Environmental Biology at SUNY ESF!
In this episode, Dr. Reich shares her journey to ESF, what she loves about the College’s close‑knit community, and how her teaching and research come together to inspire the next generation of environmental scientists.
🌱 In the Classroom
Dr. Reich teaches Cell Biology, a core course for Environmental Biology students. She discusses how she redesigned the class to focus on big-picture questions—like how cells communicate, store energy, and respond to stress—and introduced a semester‑long project called “SUNY ESF’s Next Top Model Organism.” Instead of a final exam, students present their work at a dynamic poster symposium.
🌊 Hands‑On Learning in Puerto Rico
Dr. Reich also co-teaches Tropical Marine Ecology, preparing students for a spring‑break research trip to Vieques, Puerto Rico. There, they explore ecosystems surrounding some of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world and study bioluminescent dinoflagellates, plankton communities, sediments, and the ecological dynamics of these unique environments.
🔬 Research That Makes an Impact
Her lab studies microalgae and their interactions with partners like bacteria, corals, and freshwater sponges. Current projects include:
• Microalgal–bacterial interactions in coral reef systems
• Symbiotic partnerships in New York State freshwater sponges
• Using sponge–microalgae relationships as potential water quality indicators
💚 Why ESF Students Stand Out
Dr. Reich shares heartfelt stories about ESF students—like those who rescue earthworms after rainstorms—highlighting their deep empathy, passion, and commitment to making the world a better place.
_____
Keep up with us 🌱
Instagram: @suny.esf
Facebook: @sunyesf
TikTok: @sunyesf
Esf.edu
Meet the Faculty: Dr. Hannah Reich — Microalgae, Symbiosis & Teaching at ESF
Get to know Dr. Hannah Reich, Assistant Professor of Environmental Biology at SUNY ESF!
In this episode, Dr. Reich shares her journey to ESF, what she loves about the College’s close‑knit community, and how her teaching and research come together to inspire the next generation of environmental scientists.
🌱 In the Classroom
Dr. Reich teaches Cell Biology, a core course for Environmental Biology students. She discusses how she redesigned the class to focus on big-picture questions—like how cells communicate, store energy, and respond to stress—and introduced a semester‑long project called “SUNY ESF’s Next Top Model Organism.” Instead of a final exam, students present their work at a dynamic poster symposium.
🌊 Hands‑On Learning in Puerto Rico
Dr. Reich also co-teaches Tropical Marine Ecology, preparing students for a spring‑break research trip to Vieques, Puerto Rico. There, they explore ecosystems surrounding some of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world and study bioluminescent dinoflagellates, plankton communities, sediments, and the ecological dynamics of these unique environments.
🔬 Research That Makes an Impact
Her lab studies microalgae and their interactions with partners like bacteria, corals, and freshwater sponges. Current projects include:
• Microalgal–bacterial interactions in coral reef systems
• Symbiotic partnerships in New York State freshwater sponges
• Using sponge–microalgae relationships as potential water quality indicators
💚 Why ESF Students Stand Out
Dr. Reich shares heartfelt stories about ESF students—like those who rescue earthworms after rainstorms—highlighting their deep empathy, passion, and commitment to making the world a better place.
_____
Keep up with us 🌱
Instagram: @suny.esf
Facebook: @sunyesf
TikTok: @sunyesf
Esf.edu
