Dr. Kurt Schmude

Most recent degrees:

1992 - Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – Entomology - University of Wisconsin-Madison

1984 - Master of Science (M.S.) – Entomology - University of Wisconsin-Madison

1982 - Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Biology - University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Research interests:

Dr. Kurt Schmude's research interest deals with aquatic invertebrate communities that occur in rivers, lakes, and all types of wetlands within the state of Wisconsin and surrounding areas.  His main expertise is in the identification, ecology, biology, and distribution of aquatic invertebrates. In particular, Kurt has conducted numerous surveys of publically owned properties in Wisconsin, especially properties owned by the Dept. of Natural Resources. The goals of the surveys include documenting the species and communities that occur within the aquatic resources, and to determine the status and distribution of rare and endangered aquatic species. He also conducts research on determining the effects of pollution and disturbance on the communities of aquatic invertebrates. Over the past 25 years, Kurt and his colleagues have completed research on a variety of subjects, bringing in several million dollars in funding for research, which has helped employ over 450 student assistants on many projects. The research has included:

• surveys for rare and endangered species in state-owned properties
• biomonitoring streams, lakes, and wetlands
• examining the effects of contaminants and other chemicals

Notable awards:

2017 - UW-Superior "Excellence in Scholarship Award"

Area of knowledge:

Identification, ecology, biology, and distribution of aquatic invertebrates in Wisconsin and surrounding areas.

Recent accomplishments:

Ph.D. and M.S. in Entomology with specialization in Aquatic Entomology, Professor of Biology, University of Wisconsin-Superior, Teach courses in Entomology and Aquatic Entomology, and Senior Scientist with the Lake Superior Research Institute at UW-Superior.

Courses

BIOL 100  Environmental Science
BIOL 316  Medical Terminology
BIOL 335  Aquatic Entomology
BIOL 360  Parasitology
BIOL 365  Entomology

Role as Faculty

Many undergraduate students are uncertain and undecided about their current academic path and their future plans. In addition, students are not aware of the enumerable opportunities that are available in all fields of study. The primary role of the faculty member is to begin to show students the doors of opportunity. An enthusiastic instructor and advisor should provide the student with the basic and fundamental information required to proceed to the next step in their career while at the same time challenge the student with material and ideas that will prompt them to seriously reflect on their career choice.

Undergraduate Research/Internship/Employment Opportunities

• a vast array of research topics on aquatic invertebrates can be explored
• students have completed internships with local government agencies
• employment as a student assistant or a work-study student is often available through the Natural Sciences Department or Lake Superior Research Institute (LSRI)