I have a passion for teaching and not only enjoy the challenge but sincerely appreciate the opportunity to present the world of science to a large and diverse audience. I have developed and taught scientific exercises/theories to student and researchers in Asia, South America and the Arctic. The beauty of science is that the concepts are universal and it is indeed a fulfilling experience to connect with individuals from very different backgrounds.
My goal for each of my courses is to teach students something that they have never learned before within the context of the subject. I am not interested in teaching students how to memorize course content but rather want students to go away with a firm grasp of the information I presented throughout the semester. Regardless of the curriculum I am particularly interested in encouraging students to think about what I have been presenting and to provide some feedback on the course both to better myself as a professor and to provide an improved syllabus for future students.
I find that open and frank discussion during class allows students the opportunity to present their ideas without the stress that is present during examinations. Therefore, I encourage discussion and ‘interruptions’ throughout my lectures.
I encourage students to review websites and news items concerning recent discoveries or new research in the field that I am presenting. I then ask that they bring this information into the classroom to present to myself and fellow students. This could be simply passing on the information to me and I can start the discussion or the student can take the lead by initiating an open discussion on the topic. This also helps prepare students for the oral presentations required for each course I teach.
Courses I teach at Acadia
BIOL 4683 The Biology of Cancer
This course will explore the cellular and molecular basis of human cancers. Topics will include the various forms of cancer, genetics of cancer, and historical and modern treatment strategies. The goal is to remove the mystery behind cancer and understand the biological processes behind development, diagnoses and treatment of cancer.
BIOL 2013 Cell & Molecular Biology
This course is an introduction to the principles of cell biology with an emphasis on the organization of cells and the structure and function of cellular constituents. Students receive an overview of cellular metabolism, cell communication, cell specialization and the cell cycle. We will also explore, in detail the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology.
BIOL 3613 Principles of Genetics
BIOL 3613 serves as an advanced course in genetics. The course will provide an overview of the fundamental principles of genetics with a focus on modern genetic theories and techniques. This will include exploring mutations, transmission genetics, gene expression and modern methods of genomic analysis. We will also explore the role of genetic analyses in the forensic sciences. The goal is to focus on the scientific process as applied to research in genetics and to further develop critical thinking skills by emphasizing the analysis of experimental data and problemsasizing the analysis of experimental data and problems
BIOL 3633 Topics in Cell Biology
Topics in cell biology is a seminar-based course that emphasizes the latest research in cell biology. This course will develop as a unifying discipline that combines genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology to study how cells function at the molecular level. We will combine material that will help students to develop an understanding of how structure and function are integrated in cells. Students will present papers on the latest developments in the field of cell biology. Topics include cancer biology, epigenetics, and the introduction of genomics and proteomics in understanding cellular physiology. Lectures, published reviews and original research articles will serve as course material, and will be posted on ACORN.
BIOL 3623 Molecular Genetics & Genomics
BIOL 3623 is an advanced genetics course that builds upon topics covered in Principles of Genetics (BIOL 3613), with a focus on genomics and genetics of disease. We will explore modern molecular therapies including discussions on the principles of pharmacogenomics and pharmacodynamics. Students will present a critique to the class covering issues in the world of modern molecular practices. Students will also prepare a debate on a topic of their choosing. Papers will be provided throughout the semester that the students are expected to read and discuss throughout the course.
BIOL 3013 Natural History and Field Biology
BIOL 3413 /4413 Research Topics
BIOL 4996 Honours