Teaching

Philosophy

My goal as a teacher and mentor is to build a student’s ability to think critically about science and the social constructs that govern it. Even if students do not pursue a career in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), scientific literacy is crucial for understanding mechanisms behind social problems and sifting through false information.

I know that developing scientific literacy skills can be a vulnerable process, so I work with my students to create a supportive learning environment where students feel they can practice skills and make mistakes in a safe and productive atmosphere.
I implement flipped classrooms to improve scientific literacy, and I have students facilitate flipped classrooms to build teaching and communication skills in upper-division courses.
I develop and use inclusive teaching materials in my courses, and incorporate diverse perspectives into my courses by involving early career STEM professionals

I know my students are worth of compassion, care, and respect irrespective of their test scores, attendance record in my classroom, or other academic achievements. I care about their growth as well-rounded members of society. If there’s ever anything I can do to support you, I am here to help!

Courses taught

Quarter	Course	Description
Fall 2025	BIOL 1CL: Systems Lab	Students will model biological systems (e.g., organismal body plans, human diseases, endangered natural habitats) in order to predict how they will respond and adapt. Students will also apply the process of science to collect, analyze, and interpret data across biological scales and communicate with the greater scientific community.
Winter 2026	BIOL 191: Project Lab	Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) focusing on the eco-physiology of European green crabs. Students will learn animal husbandry, conduct live animal experiments with green crabs, and process samples for molecular analysis. Students will also practice formal and informal science communication skills.
Spring 2026	BIOL 6: The Oceans	Examine the ocean environment from a physical, biological, ecological and evolutionary perspective. Our exploration of the marine environment will include an examination of human impacts on marine communities worldwide. The course is geared toward non-science majors and as such the learning goals of the course should be attainable to students from a wide variety of majors across the university.