We work in two areas. The first is traditional cell and molecular biology, focussed on the molecular and cellular behavior of complex macromolecular systems, studied in the context of the developing Xenopus embryo. We are currently exploring the use of ultra-high resolution expansion microscopy to examine processes ranging from muscle formation, ciliogenesis, desmosome assembly and disassembly, and synapse formation. My other area of effort is in how to design, assess, and effectively teach students to understand, appreciate, and make use of chemistry (CLUE) and core biology (biofundamentals). These works, carried out in collaboration with Melanie Cooper at Michigan State, have led to multiple free (open educational resources or OERs) and demonstrated and dramatic improvements in student learning and success. As part of this project we employ the beSocratic web-based formative assessment system to evaluated and encourage student learning.
keywords
cell and molecular biology of early embryonic development, mesoderm formation, neural crest induction; organ formation; course and curricular design, the evaluation and improvement of biology education
FYSM 1000 - First Year Seminar
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2018
Provide first year students with an immersive experience in an interdisciplinary topic that addresses current issues including social, technical and global topics. Taught by faculty from across campus, the course provides students with an opportunity to interact in small classes, have project based learning experiences and gain valuable communication skills. Seminar style classes focused on discussion and projects.
MCDB 2222 - Core Concepts in Biology II: Genes, Genetics and Phenotypes
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018
Web-based, in-class discussion course focused on the origins of genetic variation and inheritance, genome dynamics and gene expression and their relationship to phenotype(s). Interpreting, explaining and answering questions scientifically as well as quantitative reasoning are stress. Course fulfills the departmental requirement for MCDB 2150. Degree credit not granted for this course and MCDB 2150.
MCDB 4100 - Special Topics
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018
May be repeated up to 6 total credit hours. Recommended prerequisites: MCDB 3135 and MCDB 3145 (minimum grade C-).
MCDB 4650 - Developmental Biology
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2019 / Spring 2020
Explores the development of invertebrate and vertebrate organisms, emphasizing cellular, molecular and genetic mechanisms. Focuses on conceptual understanding and experimental approaches to topics such as embryology, developmental control of gene expression in eukaryotic cells, mechanisms of differentiation and morphogenesis and developmental genetics. Recommended prerequisites: MCDB 3135 and MCDB 3145 (minimum grade C-). Same as MCDB 5651.
MCDB 4980 - Honors Research
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2019
Provides faculty-supervised research for students who have been approved by the departmental honors committee. Normally taken during the semester before completion of the honors thesis. Recommended prerequisite: MCDB 4840 or comparable research experience, and minimum GPA of 3.20.
