Dr. Kirby-Smith's research interests in marine ecology are broadly based. In the past, his research projects have involved studies of community ecology in aquatic systems extending from the interface between rivers and estuaries to the edge of the continental shelf. His current research interests are in applied ecology, especially the restoration of aquatic systems (e.g. marshes, agricultural ditches, storm water drainage systems) at the freshwater/saltwater interface and in the ecology of fecal coliform bacteria as they impact management of shellfish resources. He has a number of collaborative projects with the NC State University Agricultural Extension Service and with the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill focused upon improving estuarine water quality. Although not an active part of his current research, he maintains an interest in the basic biology of suspension feeding invertebrates.