Benjamin Dittbrenner is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the School of Environmental and Forest Sciences at the University of Washington. His teaching and research focus on forest, riparian, and wetland ecosystems, with particular interest in how climate change and land use shape ecological processes and management strategies. His work has emphasized the role of beavers as ecosystem engineers and their potential to enhance hydrologic resilience, restore riparian systems, and support biodiversity under a changing climate.

Dr. Dittbrenner is committed to student-centered and experiential teaching. He regularly incorporates field-based learning, active learning, and interdisciplinary perspectives into his courses, which range from introductory environmental science to upper-division and graduate courses in hydrology, ecology, and resource management. He has previously taught at Northeastern University, Seattle University, and UW SEFS, where his teaching effectiveness has consistently been rated among the highest by students.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Dittbrenner has a strong record of mentorship and program leadership. At Northeastern University, he directed the Environmental Science and Policy M.S. program, growing enrollment nearly fivefold while advancing diversity and inclusion in the environmental sciences. He also founded Beavers Northwest, a nonprofit organization dedicated to non-lethal beaver management and ecosystem restoration.

Across his teaching, research, and service, Dr. Dittbrenner is passionate about preparing students to become future environmental leaders equipped to address the ecological and social challenges of climate change.

B.S., Biological Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
B.S., Environmental Science & Conservation, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
Ph.D., Forest Ecology, University of Washington
M.S., Biodiversity, Conservation, & Policy, University at Albany

Autumn 2026-27 Admissions: As an Assistant Teaching Professor, Dr. Dittbrenner does not ordinarily admit graduate students. Please reach out to Dr. Dittbrenner to inquire about their ability to admit new students.

Courses