Assistant Professor of Biology

BIOGRAPHY

As a fifth-year Assistant Professor of Biology, I have had a rewarding experience teaching here at Stockton University. I completed my PhD in Molecular Biology at the University of Delaware in 2011. My dissertation, “The Involvement of Insulin-Like Binding Protein 2 in Prostate Cancer Progression and Metastasis”, focused on the mechanism of a specific protein that promotes prostate cancer aggressiveness.

As a teaching assistant at the University of Delaware, I taught Introductory Biology and Microbiology, as well as lectures in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, and Cancer Biology. I have completed a Higher Education Teaching Certificate from the University of Delaware. In addition, I have had a year’s teaching experience in tenth grade biology at St. George’s High School through the GK-12 program (in collaboration with the University of Delaware).

Currently, my position at Stockton University has enabled me to teach various biological lectures and labs [e.g., Cells & Molecules, Genetics, Biodiversity and Evolution, Cell Biology and Biophysics]. Additionally, I served as a liaison for the Stockton Dual Credit Program (with Biology Teachers at four Regional High Schools) and an instructor for the Scientific Enrichment Academy at Stockton (SEAS) summer program.

Last year, I constructed and conducted a General Natural Sciences and Mathematics (GNM) course entitled Ecology and Saltwater Fishing. I also participate in several university services (e.g. student orientations, student instant decisions, and research judging).

I utilize prior life experiences and my heightened enthusiasm to create a more interactive environment in my classes. I use problem-based learning and formative assessment probes to aid in tailoring teaching strategies. And I will continue to strive and thrive within the opportunities with which Stockton has blessed me, and do my best to further progress for both myself and the institution.

EDUCATION

Ph.D., Molecular Biology and Genetics
      University of Delaware
Higher Education Teaching Certificate
      University of Delaware
B.S., Biology
      Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison, NJ

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Molecular Biology and Genetics

COURSES TAUGHT

Cells and Molecules Lecture
Cells and Molecules Lab
Biodiversity and Evolution
Genetics Lecture
Genetics Lab
Cell Biology and Biophysics
Ecology and Saltwater Fishing
General Biology

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Prostate Cancer Progression and Metastasis
Human Impacts on Striped Bass Migration, Behavior, and Population Health