Recent News in Biology
Seminar Series: Dr. Todd Streelman
COLLEGE STATION, TX — The Department of Biology at Texas A&M University is proud to announce an upcoming seminar featuring Dr. Todd Streelman, Professor and Chair of the School of Biological Sciences at the Georgia Institute of Technology. The seminar, titled “Cellular Profiling of a Recently Evolved Social Behavior in Cichlid Fishes,” will take place on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 4:00 PM in BSBE 115. The event will be hosted by Dr. Rachel Moran.
Exceptional Fossil of Texas State Stone Found in Brazos County
A curious blue and green stone discovered in a College Station front yard has been identified as a remarkable fossil find. The fossil, initially overlooked, caught the attention of Dr. Ben Neuman, a Texas A&M University Biology Professor, during a recent dinner party. What appeared to be an unassuming rock a little larger than a fist turned out to be an extraordinary specimen once examined more closely.
TAMU Biology Welcomes Leslie Griffith
The Texas A&M University Department of Biology is delighted to host Dr. Leslie Griffith, an internationally renowned neuroscientist and current Visiting Fellow in the Department of Biology, supported by the College of Arts & Science and the Hagler Institute for Advanced Studies, as she joins us this month. Dr. Griffith, a professor at Brandeis University and a leading researcher in the field of molecular and cellular neuroscience, will share her groundbreaking research and expertise with the Aggie community.
Seminar Series: Karine Gibbs
Karine A. Gibbs, an Associate Professor of Plant and Microbial Biology at the University of California, Berkeley, studies the social behaviors of tiny organisms. Her team focuses on understanding how bacteria recognize one another, engage in collective behaviors like territory formation, and cause disease. Please take a moment to read more about Dr. Gibbs’ work!
Alumni Spotlight: Don J Sarmiento ’92
Dr. Sarmiento reflects on the lasting impact of his Aggie education while inspiring others to pursue excellence, adaptability, and service. He remains deeply connected to the Aggie community through local Texas A&M organizations, mentorship, and family ties, with one daughter in the Class of 2025 and aspirations for the next generation of Aggies to follow in his footsteps.
Transforming Education: The Remarkable Growth and Impact of the Biological Clocks Course At Texas A&M
The course Biological Clocks taught by Dr. Deb Bell Pedersen, Distinguished Professor of Biology at Texas A&M University has rapidly grown into a cornerstone of undergraduate and graduate education, offering students unparalleled access to world-class instruction. Since its inaugural offering in spring 2022, the course has expanded from 31 students to over 150 undergraduates and 6 graduate students . This growth reflects the increasing recognition of circadian biology as a critical field of study and the course’s ability to captivate students with its cutting-edge content.
Advancing Phage Research: Collaboration Between TAMU and PVAMU Biology Faculty
Dr. Jolene Ramsey, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University (TAMU), has partnered with Dr. Lori Banks from Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) on an innovative project to study bacteriophage mechanisms of action. Dr. Ramsey’s research focuses on the molecular biology of bacteriophages, natural bacterial predators that use specific proteins to kill bacteria, even those resistant to antibiotics.
Riley Lab Publication
Bruce Riley, a Professor in the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University, is widely regarded as a leading zebrafish developmental biologist for his work examining how developmental regulatory genes control the formation and maintenance of sensory hair cells and neurons in the zebrafish inner ear. In a new study recently published in Developmental Biology, Riley and his team explored the role of the transcription factor Foxm1 in neural progenitor development.
New Publication: Mary Wicksten
Dr. Mary Wicksten, a marine biologist at Texas A&M University, has contributed to a one-of-a-kind study detailing the diverse invertebrate fauna inhabiting methane seeps along the Pacific margin of Costa Rica. Published in ZooKeys (DOI:10.3897/ZooKeys.1222.134385), the research highlights previously undocumented biodiversity, ranging from sponges to ascidians, and includes discoveries of new species.
Alumni Spotlight: Stacy Bender, ’94
Stacy Bender reflects on how her time as a TAMU Biology student has helped shape her career of over 2 decades in education.
TAMU Biology Celebrates Milestone Years for Five Faculty Members
The Texas A&M Biology Department celebrates the remarkable achievements and service of its esteemed faculty members, who have collectively dedicated over a century and a half to advancing science, education, and the university’s mission.
Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Tiffany Skaggs
Dr. Tiffany Skaggs reflects on how her time as a TAMU Biology student has helped shape her career of over 30 years in healthcare.
TAMU Biology Invites Faculty Candidates for 2025 Recruitment
Texas A&M University’s Department of Biology is thrilled to announce the commencement of interviews in the next weeks for two tenure-track assistant professor positions in the fields of neurobiology and microbiology. The department is eager to engage with new talent who will contribute to its legacy of groundbreaking research and innovative education.
GREAT PVAMU-TAMU Students present at ABRCMS
The Genome Research Experiences to Attract Talented Undergraduates into the Genomic Field to Promote Diversity (GREAT) Program, funded by a $2 million grant from the National Human Genomics Research Institute, aims to train the next generation of scientists in the field of genomics. This collaborative initiative between Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) and Texas A&M University focuses on creating research and educational opportunities for underrepresented undergraduate students.
TAMU Biology 2024 Year in Review
TAMU Biology has had a stellar 2024, see the link above for some of our favorite stories this year!
Congratulations to Barbara Earnest on her Retirement!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Barbara Earnest, Senior Research Associate in the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University, as she retires after nearly three decades of distinguished excellence. Barb has been an integral part of the department, overseeing the BSBW vivarium, where crucial biological research is conducted daily. Please take a moment to read more about Barb’s dedication and impact!
TAMU Biology Welcomes Four New Faculty in 2024
2024 was a banner year for the Texas A&M University Biology Department in terms of faculty recruiting and growth. Four new researchers joined the outstanding Biology Department faculty – Dr. Jared Bard, Dr. Jason Karpac, Dr. Joshua Lillvis, and Dr. Matthew Moulton. Their cutting-edge research programs closely align with existing areas of expertise in the Biology Department, and their innovative contributions will add fuel to the fire of discovery as the Biology Department continues to grow.
TAMU Biology Student Publishes Research on Plant Cell Stress Responses
Sarah Maynard, a Biology doctoral candidate in Larry Griffing’s laboratory in the Department of Biology Texas A&M University, has published a significant paper titled The Photosensitive Endoplasmic Reticulum-Chloroplast Contact Site in the Journal of Microscopy. Working in Dr. Larry Griffing’s laboratory, Maynard’s research explores the intricate molecular signaling pathways that plants use to respond to environmental stress, particularly excess light exposure.
TAMU Awarded Beckman Scholars Program Grant
We are proud to announce that Texas A&M University has been awarded a grant from the Beckman Scholars Program (BSP) to continue its exceptional contributions to undergraduate research and education. The program is co-directed by Dr. David Powers, Professor of Chemistry, and Dr. Alex Keene, Professor and Head of Biology, and will involve faculty and students that span three colleges at Texas A&M. This new chapter builds on the foundation laid by Dr. Sumana Datta, Assistant Provost for Undergraduate Studies and Executive Director of LAUNCH, who played a pivotal role in the program’s establishment and success.
Graduating Student Spotlights
TAMU Biology is proud of our graduating students this December, please take a moment to read about our spotlights, Eliana Tijerina, Ali Grossman, and Omar Mireles!
A Letter of Thanks and Gig ‘Em
Dr. Chris Lee, an Instructional Associate Professor in the Texas A&M Biology Department, is one of many instructors that stand out for their deep commitment to both their students’ academic success and personal well-being. Dr. Lee is among many excellent anatomy and physiology professors, and he not only delivers high-quality instruction, but also goes above and beyond to connect with his students on a meaningful level. One student’s parent shared a heartfelt letter with the department recently, praising Dr. Lee’s impact.
Three Faculty from the Department of Biology Receive Funding from The WoodNext Foundation
The philanthropic efforts of The WoodNext Foundation seek to advance human progress and remove obstacles to a fulfilling life! Click the link above to learn more about how their funding will impact the future of research at the Texas A&M Biology Department.
Dr. Susan C. Alberts joins TAMU Biology as Hagler Fellow
The Texas A&M University Department of Biology is thrilled to announce that Dr. Susan Alberts will be joining their ranks as a Hagler Fellow starting in Fall 2024. Dr. Alberts, the Robert F. Durden Distinguished Professor of Biology and the Dean of Natural Sciences at Duke University, will be bringing to the department her passion for understanding how and why animal behaviors evolve.
Undergraduate Spotlight: Isa Mendoza
Isa Mendoza, a junior honors student majoring in Biology, was selected for a platform presentation at the Rice BioSciences Gulf Coast Undergraduate Research Symposium (GCURS). Her talk, titled, “Characterizing genetic variation in hormonal pathways associated with the evolution of parental care in darters” described her work investigating social behavior in darter fish, an emerging model of evolution.
Texas A&M Biology’s Kayla Goforth Selected As 2024 Life Sciences Research Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow
Dr. Kayla Goforth, a postdoctoral research associate in the Dr. Christine Merlin Lab, has been selected to receive a 2024 Life Sciences Research Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship in recognition of research promise and potential in exploring critical questions in all areas of the life sciences. Dr. Goforth the first Texas A&M recipient in the 41-year history of the prestigious award. Please take a moment to read about Dr. Goforth’s research in the TAMU ArtSci article!
Researchers Find Coronaviruses — In Fish
A team of scientists including Dr. Ben Neuman of the TAMU Biology Department has turned up some new coronaviruses in an unexpected place – fish. None of these viruses is known to infect people, or even cause a disease in the fish they infect. When the researchers looked closer, they noticed something very unusual about the new viruses. Learn more using the link above!
Aishwarya Sahasrabudhe & Hailee Nerber awarded Roozbeh Arianpour Scholarship
The 2023 Roozbeh Arianpour Endowed Memorial Scholarship is awarded to TAMU Biology graduate students for excellence in research. This year’s awardees are Aishwarya Sahasrabudhe from the Menet Lab and Hailee Nerber from the Sorg Lab. Please take a moment to congratulate the awardees and read about their research and nominations!
2023 Lawrence S. Dillon Distinguished Graduate Student Awards
The Lawrence S. Dillon Distinguished Graduate Student Award was established in 2001 by Patricia Dillon Moore in memory of her father, a former professor in the department of biology. Dr. Dillon received his Masterʼs degree from A&M in 1950 and Doctoral degree from A&M in 1954. Dr. Dillon eventually became a professor in the department, and in 1975 he became professor emeritus. Dr. Dillon passed away in 1999, after which his daughter established this award in his memory to be presented to graduate students who excel in either research or teaching. This year’s award recipients are Jenna Hulke, Valerie Dietz, and Matt Breuer. Please read more about the recipients and their accomplishments! Article By Jack Lee
A Nobel Experience
Biology Ph.D. candidate Evan Lloyd ’25 was one of five Texas A&M graduate students among the nearly 600 fellows selected worldwide to participate in the 72nd Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting, dedicated to physiology and medicine and featuring 40 Nobel laureates and guests from 90 countries. Please read more about the experience in the College of Arts & Sciences Article!
Charles Criscione Honored With 2023 Henry Baldwin Ward Medal
TAMU Biology’s Dr. Charles Criscione, Professor of biology and an Associate Dean in the Graduate and Professional School at Texas A&M University, has been selected to receive the 2023 Henry Baldwin Ward Medal from the American Society of Parasitologists. The award, which consists of a specially designed bronze medal and a $1,000 honorarium, is conferred on mid-career members of the society “who, by self-directed investigations, shall have attained a position of leadership in some aspect of parasitological research.” It is considered one of the highest honors bestowed within the field of parasitology. Please read more about the award in the College of Arts & Sciences Article!
Dr. Deb Bell-Pedersen Named Distinguished Professor
Texas A&M University has awarded the title of University Distinguished Professor, its highest faculty award, to eight scholars including TAMU Biology’s Dr. Deb Bell-Pedersen. The University Distinguished Professor designation is bestowed upon faculty members who are preeminent in their fields and have made at least one transformational contribution or provided an intellectually substantial “leap forward” in their discipline. This faculty cohort has made significant contributions and inspired innovative thought in smart/autonomous computational and robotic systems, process manufacturing system optimization, the genetic factors critical to drug metabolism and cancer research, immigration law and environmental and nuclear chemistry.
Dr. Richard Gomer elected as 2022 AAS Fellow
Dr. Richard Gomer, a member of the Department of Biology since 2010 and holder of a Thomas W. Powell ’62 Chair in Science, is globally renowned as a prolific researcher and pioneering inventor with a strong track record of translating his research findings into societal benefit. He is a world leader in fundamental research in cell differentiation and the molecular mechanisms of cell density sensing using the single-celled amoebae Dictyostelium, considered one of the primary model systems by the National Institutes of Health and widely used to address problems in evolutionary, cell and developmental biology. Please read more about Dr. Gomer in the TAMU Arts & Science article!
Scientists Make Progress in Decoding Genetics of Insomnia
Using a predictive genomics approach called variant-to-gene mapping, Texas A&M biologist Alex Keene and colleagues prove the gene Pig-Q is associated with sleep regulation in humans, flies and zebrafish. Read the College of Arts & Sciences article to learn more!
Graduate Student Spotlight: Aditi Raju
This month’s Graduate Student Spotlight highlights Aditi Raju. A student in the Versaw Lab, Aditi works on understanding modulation and consequences of inorganic phosphate (Pi) concentration in chloroplasts of plants. Learn more about Aditi and her graduate experience in this month’s Spotlight using the link above.
Nobel Laureate Dr. Michael W. Young Named Visiting Hagler Fellow
The Department of Biology and the Center for Biological Clocks Research are thrilled to welcome renowned circadian biologist and 2017 Nobel Laureate Michael W. Young as a visiting Hagler Fellow. Dr. Young will collaborate with researchers in the College of Arts & Sciences as well as other disciplines across the university.
Graduate Student Spotlight: Prakruthi Amar Kumar
This month’s Graduate Student Spotlight highlights Prakruthi Amar Kumar. A student in the Dulin Lab, Prakruthi works on understanding the maladaptive hyperactivity of pain neurons after spinal cord injury. Learn more about Prakruthi and her graduate experience in this month’s Spotlight with the link above.
Your Body’s Internal Clock Dictates When You Eat, Sleep And Might Have A Heart Attack — All Based On Time Of Day
Your internal clock controls almost everything in your body! Texas A&M Biology Chronobiologist Dr. Shogo Sato explains how this sensitive system affects day-to-day tasks, how misalignment could result in health problems, and how you can change your behaviors to make your internal clock work to your advantage.
BA.5: What To Know About The Omicron Subvariant Driving Up US COVID Cases
The highly-contagious BA.5 strain of Omicron is now the dominant form of coronavirus in the U.S. To better understand all aspects of BA.5, check out this Q&A featuring leading epidemiologist Dr. Rebecca Fischer and Texas A&M Biology Virologist Dr. Ben Neuman.
Faculty Spotlight: Daniel Paredes-Sabja
Dr. Daniel Paredes-Sabja is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology, investigating microbial pathogenesis, pathogen/microbiota-host interactions, bacterial spore physiology, genomic epidemiology and more recently vaccine-development. Dr. Paredes-Sabja is the focus of our Faculty Spotlight this month, sharing his experiences and advice. Please take a moment to read more about Dr.Paredes-Sabja!
Faculty Spotlight: Benjamin Neuman
Dr. Benjamin Neuman is a Professor in the Department of Biology, investigating how viruses work and where they come from to better understand diseases before they happen. Dr. Neuman is the focus of our Faculty Spotlight this month, sharing his experiences and advice. Please take a moment to read more about Dr. Neuman!
Faculty Spotlight: Bella Farhy
Dr. Isabella Farhy is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology, investigating how neurons and astrocytes in the brain shape synapse development and activity. Dr. Farhy is the focus of our Faculty Spotlight this month, sharing her experiences and advice for students in academia. Please take a moment to read more about Dr. Farhy!
Faculty Spotlight: Dylan McCreedy
Dr. Dylan McCreedy is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology, investigating inflammation and neural circuit damage after spinal cord injury. Dr. McCreedy is the focus of our Faculty Spotlight this month, sharing his experiences and advice for students in academia. Please take a moment to read more about Dr. McCreedy!
Dr. Kira Delmore Earns NSF Career Award
Dr. Kira Delmore, an assistant professor in TAMU Biology, has been selected to receive a National Science Foundation Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Award, a prestigious honor intended to help kick-start the careers of rising faculty with the potential to become academic leaders in both research and education. Dr. Delmore is the first investigator in Texas A&M Biology to be honored with the prestigious award, please take a moment to congratulate Dr. Delmore and read more about her research and award!
Dr. Aref Zarin is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology, investigating developmental and experimental neuroscience in Drosophila. Dr. Zarin is the focus of our Faculty Spotlight this month, sharing his experiences and advice for students in academia. Please take a moment to read more about Dr. Zarin!
Scientists have known for several decades that mutations in the period gene which governs rhythmic transcription in mammals can wreak havoc on their circadian, or 24-hour, rhythms. They’ve also long known why, but thanks to Texas A&M University biologists in the Center for Biological Clocks Research (CBCR), scientists now know the how behind the why, courtesy of recent research published in PNAS that points to a new protein, the heat shock protein HSP68, which is also crucial to the tumultuous mix. Please read more about this exciting discovery from Christine Merlin, Jerome Menet and Paul Hardin — and their respective pooled insights across three model organisms: monarch butterflies, mice and fruit flies.
Dr. Deb Bell-Pedersen Elected as AAAS Fellow
Dr. Terry Thomas University Professor of Biology Deborah Bell-Pedersen was recently recognized as a 2021 Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Dr. Bell-Pedersen is cited by the Biological Sciences section of the AAAS “for distinguished contributions to the field of molecular biology, particularly using Neurospora to understand genetic controls of circadian rhythms and circadian rhythm controls of gene expression.” Dr. Bell-Pedersen was one of 564 AAAS members honored this year by their peers for their efforts to advance science or its applications. Congratulations to Dr. Deb Bell-Pedersen!
Graduate Student Spotlight Video: Andrea Martinez Aguirre
Texas A&M University Biology Graduate Student Andrea Martinez Aguirre sat down with us to discuss her project in the Sorg Lab on C. difficile, her graduate experience, and what made her interested in her field of study today. Please take a moment to watch our December Graduate Student Spotlight with Andrea Martinez Aguirre!
TAMU Biology-Led Research Rules Out Secondary Bile Acids as Protector Against C. difficile
A collaboration between the TAMU Biology Sorg Lab and Baylor College of Medicine Savidge Group has recently led to an article published in PLOS Pathogens, showing that secondary bile acids are a case of correlation, not causation, in C. difficile infection prevention. The Sorg Lab, including microbiology graduate student and first author Andrea Martinez Aguirre, worked together with the Savidge group to find and publish their results about the dynamic of other microbes and their impact on C. difficile infections. Please take a moment to read the TAMU Science article about the research findings!
TAMU Biologist Finds Life Purpose in Spinal Cord Injury Research
TAMU Biologist Dr. Dylan McCreedy was only 18 months old when he lost the hearing in his right ear, the result of a near-fatal case of spinal meningitis. As an assistant professor and TIRR Foundation Fellow in the Texas A&M Department of Biology, McCreedy specializes in researching the acute inflammation that occurs immediately following spinal trauma and its effect on wound healing. Please take a moment to read more about Dr. McCreedy and his research in the Texas A&M Today article!
Graduate Student Spotlight Video: Kristen Consalvo
Kristen Consalvo is a PhD Candidate in the Dr. Richard Gomer Lab, studying eukaryotic chemorepulsion. Kristen sat down with us to talk about her life, choosing graduate school, her research project, and even offered up some sage advice. Take a moment to watch and learn more about Kristen and her graduate school experience, and a big thank you to Kristen for her time!
Texas A&M University biologist Dr. Jennifer Dulin has been selected to receive the 2021 Jerry Johnston Andrew Award for Spinal Cord Research recognizing related excellence and potential progress for the nearly 300,000 Americans currently afflicted with spinal cord injury (SCI). The award is presented annually by The Institute for Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR) Foundation, a Houston-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with neurotrauma and neurodegenerative disease. Please take a moment to congratulate Dr. Dulin and read more about the award and her research!
Former Student Success: Dr. Mary Janecka
Dr. Mary Janecka is a former graduate student in the Charles Criscione lab at Texas A&M Biology, where she received her Ph.D. in 2019 with her dissertation work on the delisted concho water snake endemic to the Colorado River drainage in Texas. Dr. Janecka has received a NSF Postdoctoral Fellowship to work on the landscape genetics of monogene parasites in Trinidad guppies! Please take a moment to learn more about Dr. Janecka and her fellowship work.
Two TAMU Biology Graduates Inducted into TAMU Science Academy of Distinguished Former Students
Three prominent Texas A&M University former students from the College of Science have earned selection by the college for its highest alumni honor, induction into its Academy of Distinguished Former Students. The former students included two TAMU Biology graduates, Brig. Gen. (Ret) James A. Mobley, M.D., Class of 1969, of Portland, Texas; and Dr. Robert O. Williams III, Class of 1979, of Austin, who join a prestigious list of 62 previous honorees distinguished for their innovation, merit and records of professional and personal accomplishment. Please take a moment to read more about Mobley & Williams and their well-deserved honor!
Dr. Alex Keene Named Head of Texas A&M Biology
Dr. Alex C. Keene, a leading neuroscientist, geneticist and evolutionary biologist and professor of biological sciences at Florida Atlantic University, has been appointed as head of the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University. Dr. Keene’s research at the intersection of evolution and neuroscience focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms and evolutionary underpinnings of sleep, memory formation and other behavioral functions in fly and fish models. Please take a moment to read more about Dr. Keene and the Department of Biology in the TAMU Science Article!
Texas A&M Today: Dr. Ben Neuman Discusses What You Should Know About The Delta Variant
Dr. Ben Neuman, Texas A&M Virologist in TAMU Biology, discusses how the United Kingdom’s experience with the Delta Variant of the coronavirus is like the “canary in our mine” for how it will make its way to the United States. Check our Dr. Neuman’s discussion of the Delta Variant and its spread in the Texas A&M Today Article.
Ryan Rahman Named 2021 Astronaut Scholar
Congratulations to Ryan Rahman ‘22, a Biology major from Lubbock, TX, who has been awarded a 2021 Astronaut Foundation Scholarship! Astronaut Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate initiative, creativity, and excellence in undergraduate research and academics in their fields, as well as their potential to become leaders in their scientific and professional pursuits. Ryan is one of two TAMU students selected for the scholarship, both students are in Texas A&M College of Science. Please take a moment to congratulate Ryan and read the TAMU Science Article about the newest Astronaut Scholars from TAMU!
Jennifer Bradford wins 2021 Excellence in Graduate Advising Award
Congratulations to Texas A&M Biology’s Program Coordinator for Graduate Advising, Jennifer Bradford, winner of the 2021 Excellence in Graduate Advising Award from the Office for Student Success! The purpose of the Excellence in Graduate Advising Award is to recognize academic advisors who help to create and nurture an environment in which highly qualified, diverse graduate and professional students can thrive. Please take a moment to read more about Jennifer and her well-deserved award!
Biology Spring 2021 Virtual Recognition Ceremony
The Biology Spring 2021 Virtual Recognition Ceremony will go live on YouTube at 3pm CST on Friday, May 14th. Please join us as we recognize and celebrate our outstanding graduating students from this last school year!
Former Student Lt Col Patrick Kennedy Earns Hero of Military Medicine Award
Lt. Col. Patrick Kennedy graduated with a M.S. in Microbiology from the TAMU Biology program in 2005 while working in the Wayne Versaw Lab. Now in 2021, Lt. Col. Kennedy has earned a Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) 2021 Hero of Military Medicine Award for his work in confronting the Sars-Cov-2 pandemic early on and making significant contributions in the fight against COVID-19. Please read more about Lt. Col. Kennedy and his award, and also check out HJF’s article about the work of the 2021 Heroes of Military of Medicine Awardees.
Dr. Ben Neuman Discusses COVID-19 strains discovered in the Brazos Valley
TAMU Biology Professor Dr. Ben Neuman is a Chief Virologist at the Texas A&M Global Heath Research Complex (GHRC). This week, Dr. Neuman’s lab spoke of their discovery of 3 strains identified for the first time in the Brazos Valley. The variants were given the names BV-1, BV-2, and BV-3, with “BV” standing for Brazos Valley. Check out the KBTX article about these discoveries and Dr. Neuman’s discussion of the strains!
Ryan Rahman Named 2021 Goldwater Scholar
Congratulations to Ryan Rahman ‘22, a Biology major from Lubbock, TX, who has been awarded a 2021 Goldwater Foundation Scholarship in recognition of outstanding academic achievement and research potential! Goldwater Scholarships are awarded to exceptional sophomore or junior undergraduates who pursue research careers in mathematics, natural sciences, or engineering. Ryan’s undergraduate research in the Gomer Laboratory is currently being written up in two manuscripts for publication, with one featuring him as first author. Read more about Ryan and the prestigious Barry M. Goldwater Award in the TAMU Undergraduate Article!
TAMU Biology’s Maureen Hayden Sets Sights on Helping Planet and People Through Science
Maureen Hayden is a doctoral Marine Biology student in the Dr. Mary Wicksten lab, and her work involves plastic pollution and tiny crustaceans on the Texas coast. As if those were not challenging enough on their own, Maureen is also legally blind. Be sure to check out the TAMU Science article about Maureen’s passion for both science and leading by example for anyone who’s hesitant to pursue career interests because of a disability. In her own words, “You don’t know how far you can go until you try”.
Dr. Andy Tag Earns 2021 Distinguished Achievement Award in Teaching
TAMU Biology’s Dr. Andy Tag is a 2021 Recipient of the Distinguished Achievement Award in Teaching from the Association of Former Students. Dr. Tag and two other colleagues in the College of Science at TAMU are being recognized for exhibiting the highest standards of excellence at Texas A&M in Teaching. Please take a moment to congratulate Dr. Tag and check out the TAMU Science Article about the award and its recipients!
Dr. Ben Neuman talks Vaccine Distribution & Herd Immunity in Brazos County
Dr. Ben Neuman talks with KBTX News about how discrepancies in the vaccine distribution for Brazos County must be solved in order to reach herd immunity and defeat the virus. Be sure to check out the full story!
Texas A&M Biologist Dylan McCreedy Named Scialog® Fellow
Texas A&M University biologist Dylan McCreedy has been named a Fellow for a new initiative, Scialog: Advancing Bioimaging, in which early-career scientists will take on the challenges involved in enhancing high-resolution imaging of tissues to support basic science and disease treatment. McCreedy is one of 55 Scialog Fellows with wide-ranging expertise who will collaborate across institutional and disciplinary lines to develop the next generation of imaging technologies capable of enhancing our ability to study tissues at cellular or sub-cellular resolution and map biological processes within and throughout organisms. Please take a moment to congratulate Dr. McCreedy and read more about the Fellowship in the TAMU Science Article!
TAMU Biology Graduate Student Seminar Series
BioGSA has resumed the Graduate Student Seminar series, hosted every other Friday for graduate students to present their material for their peers.
TAMU Biology Grad Kristen Free Named to 12 Under 12 Young Alumni Spotlight Cohort
TAMU Biology graduate Kristen K. Free ’11 of Austin has been named to the 2021 cohort of the Texas A&M University 12 Under 12 Young Alumni Spotlight. Free, who earned her B.S. in Biology in 2010, is among this year’s 12 recipients selected by The Association of Former Students to receive the honor recognizing former students who have graduated within the past 12 years for demonstrating excellence in business and service while representing Texas A&M’s core values. Be sure to check out the TAMU Science Article about Kristen’s accomplishments!
Dr. Ben Neuman talks COVID-19 Variants and Vaccines
Dr. Benjamin Neuman has joined the Texas A&M faculty as a Professor of biology and Global Health Research Complex Chief Virologist. As one of the world’s top experts on coronaviruses, Dr. Neuman was featured on a Houston Chronicle Q&A covering all things COVID-19 vaccines, be sure to check out the full story.
Dr. Paul Hardin recognized as 2020 AAAS Fellow
Dr. Paul Hardin has been recognized as a 2020 Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), honored by his peers with the prestigious distinction this year for distinguished contributions to the field of biological rhythms, particularly for discovering molecular feedback loops that govern circadian timekeeping in all eukaryotes. Please take a moment to congratulate Dr. Hardin and read about the fellowship in the TAMU Science Article!
Mary-Catherine C. Clark 2020 Recipient of Gates-Muller Award
Mary-Catherine C. Clark, who graduated with a B.S. in Molecular and Cellular Biology from TAMU Biology in May of 2020, has been announced as the recipient of the 2020 Robert Gates-Muller Family Outstanding Student Award. The Muller-Gates Award was established in 2007 through a gift from the Muller family to provide public recognition to an outstanding senior graduating from Texas A&M who has demonstrated qualities of leadership, patriotism, courage and service to country, school and nation. Congratulations to Mary-Catherine Clark!
Dr. Christine Merlin Named 2020 Presidential Impact Fellow
Dr. Christine Merlin, an Associate Professor in Department of Biology, has been honored among the 2020 Presidential Impact Fellows. The award was initiated by President Michael K. Young to recognize rising stars in their respective fields, and who embody the university’s commitment to advancing knowledge through transformational learning, discovery, innovation and impact for Texas and the world. Please take a moment to read the TAMU Science Article, and be sure to congratulate Dr. Merlin!
College of Science Honors 2020 Award Winners
Faculty, staff and students within the TAMU College of Science were recognized for recent outstanding accomplishments by Dean Valen E. Johnson at the college’s annual Faculty & Staff Meeting and Awards Presentation on Oct. 27. From TAMU Biology, Dr. Asha Rao was honored with one of the college’s Leadership in Equity and Diversity (LEAD) Awards and Lieu Jean was presented with a 2020 Outstanding Staff Achievement Award. Please take a moment to congratulate the winners and read about the awards in the TAMU Science Article!
Dr. Joseph Sorg Honored as 2020 Chancellor Enhancing Development and Generating Excellence in Scholarship (EDGES) Fellow
Launched in 2019, EDGES Fellowships were developed to honor, incentivize and boost mid-career faculty at the associate or early full professor rank who are making significant marks in their discipline. Please take a moment to Congratulate Dr. Sorg and read about the EDGES Fellowship in the TAMU Today Article.
The mystery of the missing portrait of Robert Hooke, 17th-century scientist extraordinaire
It’s incredibly strange that there is no contemporary portrait of renowned scientist Robert Hooke, who discovered the cell. A little detective work points to Isaac Newton as likely involved in the disappearance of a portrait honoring Hooke. After all, the two did have a quarrelsome history… Be sure to checkout the latest from Dr. Larry Griffing in the article by The Conversation!
Dr. Asha Rao Earns Presidential Professor Award
Dr. Asha Rao, an instructional assistant professor of biology, has been recognized with the 2020 Presidential Professor for Teaching Excellence Award, the most prestigious faculty honor bestowed by Texas A&M University in recognition of classroom performance. Please take a moment to read the TAMU Science Article, and be sure to congratulate Dr. Rao!
2020 Biology Department Recognition and Awards Ceremony
Texas A&M Biology hosted a virtual Awards Ceremony and State of the Department on June 22nd, highlighting the resiliency and commitment of the department and its members. Please take a moment to read and congratulate this year’s award winners.
Congratulations to our Biology Undergraduate Award Winners!
Congratulations to all of our amazing undergraduates for their academic excellence and amazing research! Please take a moment to read about these amazing scholars and their achievements in the TAMU Science Articles.
Tribute to Dr. Wesley J. Thompson (1947–2019)
Wesley Jay (Wes) Thompson, known for his seminal contributions to the studies of neuromuscular synapses and glial cells, passed away on March 26, 2019, at the age of 71. Please take a moment with us to remember Dr. Thompson a year after his passing by reading his tribute article in Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience.
Graduate Student Spotlight: Ashley Hudson
This month’s Graduate Student Spotlight highlights Ashley Hudson! A student in the Lockless Lab, Ashley studies E. coli membrane potential modulations. Learn more about Ashley and her graduate experience in this month’s Spotlight!
Texas A&M Biology mourns the loss of longtime advisor Clint Crampton
Clinton C. “Clint” Crampton ’99, a 2000 graduate of Texas A&M University and longtime academic advisor in the Texas A&M Department of Biology, passed away Saturday, May 23, at home in Brenham with his parents by his side as a result of complications from a long struggle with cancer at the age of 43. Clint was an advisor in the Biology Department for 16 years, where he helped countless undergraduates through their degrees. Please take a moment to read the TAMU Science article remembering Clint, who will be deeply missed.
New research by a multi-institution team featuring several Texas A&M University biologists including members past and present of the Dr. Gil Rosenthal Laboratory has identified the genetic cause of the skin cancer melanoma in the hybrid offspring of two species of swordtail fish, leading to possible new therapies for treating cancer in humans! Learn more about their findings in the TAMU Science Article.
Texas A&M Biologist Wayne Versaw Earns Open Education Champion Award
Texas A&M University biologist Dr. Wayne K. Versaw has been selected by the Student Government Association to receive the 2020 SGA Open Education Champion Award for his efforts to implement open source textbooks for freshman biology courses. This award recognizes Texas A&M faculty members who promote or contribute to a culture of using open access materials with the broader goal of lessening the financial burden on students and mitigating the overall cost of receiving an education. Congratulations to Dr. Versaw, read more about his work and the award in the TAMU Science Article!
Texas A&M Biologists Identify Mechanism Behind Clock Control of Protein Production
Scientists have known for some time that the biological clock controls many functions related to human health. But can these clock-regulated processes and the resulting feedback that affects their timing share a common trigger? Texas A&M University biologists have determined the answer is yes, thanks to a fundamental and conserved mechanism that contributes to how the circadian clock regulates rhythms in protein production. Read more about the newest PNAS paper out from the Bell-Pedersen Lab in the TAMU Science Article.
Graduate Student Spotlight: Zhaolan Ding
This month’s Graduate Student Spotlight highlights Zhaolan Ding. A student in the Bell-Pedersen Lab, Zhaolan works on circadian clocks in Neurospora crassa. Learn more about Zhaolan and her graduate experience in this month’s Spotlight.
Biology Faculty Make Amazingly Rapid and Successful Transition to Online-Instruction
With approximately 10 days’ notice, the Department of Biology’s faculty, graduate teaching assistants and instructional staff were able to transition all of our courses to an on-line format so the 5,700 students enrolled in our courses can finish the semester and remain on track for timely graduation. Moving the laboratory sections on-line was a particular challenge, but even the largest laboratory courses, introductory biology, microbiology, and the human anatomy & physiology courses, managed to pull off this truly amazing switch.
Dr. Gil Rosenthal Named Texas A&M Science Associate Dean for International Programs
Dr. Gil Rosenthal, Professor of biology at Texas A&M University, has been named Associate Dean for International Programs in the Texas A&M College of Science, as announced Dean Dr. Valen E. Johnson. As Associate Dean for international programs, Rosenthal will work to strengthen and expand the international experiences of undergraduate students and faculty members throughout the college, coordinating as appropriate across the university and affiliated units. Read more about Dr. Rosenthal in the TAMU Science Article!
Jonathan Lo Awarded Barry M. Goldwater Scholar
Congratulations to Jonathan Lo ‘21, a dual degree Cell & Molecular Biology & Statistics major from East Brunswick, NJ, who has been awarded a 2020 Barry Goldwater Scholarship! Goldwater Scholarships are awarded to exceptional sophomore or junior undergraduates who pursue research careers in mathematics, natural sciences, or engineering. Jonathan’s undergraduate research in the Blackmon Lab has led to several publications, with more on the way. Read more about Jonathan and the prestigious Barry M. Goldwater Award.
Dr. Mark Zoran 2020 Recipient of Women’s Progress Administrator Award
Congratulations to to Dr. Mark Zoran for receiving the Women’s Progress Administrator Award from the Accountability, Climate, and Equity (ACE) Awards for 2020! This award is given to those who encourage and direct attention to an improved environment for women through policy formation, goal-setting, programs, staff selection, and who positively promote women’s issues in the workplace. Read more about the ACE Awards and the 2020 Recipients!
Collaborative Texas A&M Study Ties Kin Selection to Host-Manipulating Behavior in Parasites
New research by Texas A&M University biologist Dr. Charles Criscione and collaborators in Canada shows that family ties and traits such as manipulation, sacrifice and selflessness are just as key to survival in parasitic organisms as they are in cognitive species like humans. In essence, when it comes to successful transmission, some parasites get by with a little help from their kin. Learn more about these fascinating parasites and Dr. Criscione’s research!
Texas A&M Biologist Jennifer Dulin Finds Niche in Aggieland, Spinal Cord Injury Research
Don’t miss this TAMU Science article about Dr. Jen Dulin, who has returned to Aggieland years after earning her undergraduate degree here, now as a part of the Faculty in TAMU Biology! Dr. Dulin is using her knowledge of cellular and molecular biology to perfect experimental approaches to repairing and rebuilding the injured spinal cord in her research laboratory. Read more about Dr. Dulin’s research and her life in Aggieland!
Dr. Richard Gomer Appointed as University Distinguished Professor
Congratulations to Dr. Gomer, who is among the seven Texas A&M University faculty appointed to the rank of University Distinguished Professor! Dr. Gomer is globally renowned as a prolific researcher and pioneering inventor with a strong track record of translating his research findings into societal benefit, learn more about Dr. Gomer and his achievements in the TAMU Science Article.
Graduate Student Spotlight: Jibran Khan
This month’s Graduate Student Spotlight highlights Jibran Khan. A student in the Lockless and Kao Labs, Jibran works on developing strategies which can help transcribe a heterologous DNA cluster by overcoming intrinsic terminators in E. coli. Learn more about Jibran and his graduate experience in this month’s Spotlight.
Biosphere Newsletter Spring 2020
Catch up with the Department of Biology’s latest and greatest with our Newsletter Biosphere, highlighting the amazing people and research happening right here in TAMU Biology!
Graduate Student Spotlight: Adam Foxfire
This month’s Graduate Student Spotlight highlights Adam Foxfire. A student in the Smith Lab, Adam works on the discovery, purification, and characterization of novel antibiotics from natural sources. Learn more about Adam and his graduate experience in this month’s Spotlight.
Graduate Student Spotlight: Abira Sahu
This month’s Graduate Student Spotlight highlights Abira Sahu. A student in the Versaw Lab, Abira works on spatial distribution of inorganic phosphate in Arabidopsis roots. Learn more about Abira and her graduate experience in this month’s Spotlight.
Vets Who Code
Dr. Heath Blackmon of Texas A&M Biology has created a program designed to give veterans the chance to learn valuable coding skills needed in modern day STEM fields, called “Vets Who Code”. The two day program provides in-person training and certification in coding and data analysis, learn more about this year’s program and its impacts in the TAMU Biology Article.
Texas A&M Biologists Celebrate Biotech Start-Up’s $1.4 Billion Sale
Congratulations to Dr. Richard Gomer and Dr. Darrell Pilling on the sale of their Biotech company Promedior Inc., which is focused on research into fighting fibrotic diseases! Learn more about their work and the sale in the TAMU Science Article.
First-Gen Spotlight: Thao-Nguyen Pham
With the lessons she learned as a first-generation college student, Thao-Nguyen Pham ’20 is mentoring other first-generation freshmen while working toward her degree in Zoology. Read more about her story in the article by the Office of Student Success.
Biosphere Newsletter Fall 2019
Catch up with the Department of Biology’s latest and greatest with our Newsletter Biosphere, highlighting the amazing people and research happening right here in TAMU Biology!
Dr. Christine Merlin Lab Finds Genetic Evidence for Clock Control and Vitamin A Regulation of Seasonal Responses in Monarchs
Biologists at Texas A&M University are making strides in understanding biological clock function in several model organisms and translating these studies into broader implications for human health, learn more about the Merlin Lab and their findings in the article by TAMU Science.
Checkout the Graduate Student Spotlight: Yu Tang
A student in the Gomer Lab, Yu works on the mechanism of extracellular polyphosphate induced proliferation inhibition in Dictyostelium discoideum. Learn more about Yu and his graduate experience in this month’s Spotlight here.
Dr. Asha Rao wins 2019 AFS Distinguished Achievement College-Level Awards in Teaching
Dr. Asha Rao is one of this year’s recipients of The Association of Former Students Distinguished Achievement College-Level Awards in Teaching for 2019 for her commitment to Biology Education. Learn more about Dr. Rao and the other award recipients here.
Checkout the Graduate Student Spotlight: Kyoungsun Rha
Kyoungsun is a student Garcia Lab, and works on identifying the mechanism of how cells regulate their metabolisms to maintain their functionality
Read more about Kyoungsun and her graduate student experience here.
SPRC 2019
Checkout photos from the Department of Biology’s Student & Postdoc Research Conference held on OCtober 5th, 2019.
Photos of the participants can be found here.
Dr. Lawrence Griffing: The Lost Portrait of Robert Hooke?
“Robert Hooke was very, very busy in his day and one of the first practical scientists. One of the Holy Grails of science history is to find the portrait of him. I’ve been looking, and I think I might’ve found it.” -Dr. Lawrence Griffing, Texas A&M biologist
Read the full TAMU Science article here.
Checkout the Graduate Student Spotlight: YuFeng Wan
Yufeng is a student in the Garcia lab, and he studies neurobiology and mating behaviors of males in C. elegans
Read more about Yufeng and his graduate student experience here.
Checkout the Graduate Student Spotlight: Katrina Hofstetter
Katrina is a student in the Lockless lab, and she studies how bacterial ion channels affect cell physiology.
Read more about Katrina and her graduate student experience here.
Checkout the Graduate Student Spotlight: Jimmy Goncalves
Jimmy is a student in the Garcia lab, and studies how metabolism affects neurology and behavior in C. elegans.
Read more about Jimmy and his graduate student experience here.
Dr. Deb Bell-Pedersen Named to Inaugural Class of 2019 University Professorships
Dr. Deborah Bell-Pedersen, professor of biology and associate head of operations in the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University, has been named as one of five inaugural holders of a University Professorship, a new faculty honor announced Wednesday (May 1) by Texas A&M Provost and Executive Vice President Dr. Carol A. Fierke.
Read the full TAMU Science article here.
Checkout the Graduate Student Spotlight: Andrew Anderson
Drew is a graduate student in the Adam Jones lab, studying sexual selection and evolution of traits using fishes like pipefish.
Read more about Drew and his graduate student experience here.
Dr. Duncan MacKenzie awarded 2019 AFS Distinguished Achievement in Teaching Award
In May of 2019, Dr. Duncan MacKenzie was awarded a Distinguished Achievement Award for his excellence in Teaching.
Read more about Dr. MacKenzie and his distinguished service here.
Checkout the Graduate Student Spotlight: Joshua Beytebiere
Joshua is a graduate student in the Jerome Menet lab, studying rhythmic gene expression in the circadian clock.
Read more about Joshua and his graduate student experience here.
Texas A&M Biologists Find Feeding Time Influences Liver’s Biological Clock in Mice
The timing of food intake is a major factor driving the rhythmic expression of most genes in the mouse liver, Texas A&M University researchers report Tuesday (April 16) in the journal Cell Reports.
Read the full TAMU Science article here.
Graduate Student Spotlight: Amy Tan
This month’s Graduate Student Spotlight highlights Amy Tan. A Ph.D. Candidate in the Riley lab, Amy studies inner ear development in zebrafish. Amy studies transcription factors regulating sensory and neural parts of the ear, and recently won the Doctoral Category of the TAMU 3 Minute Thesis Competition where she presented a three minute synopsis of her dissertation work. Learn more about Amy and her work in this month’s Spotlight above.
Texas A&M Biologist Richard Gomer Elected Senior Member of National Academy of Inventors
Texas A&M University biologist Dr. Richard H. Gomer has been named to the inaugural class of National Academy of Inventors (NAI) Senior Members in recognition of the achievement and contributions of academic inventors worldwide.
Read the full TAMU Science article here.