Biographical Sketch

I am Timothy McMahan (he/him), a biology educator and laboratory manager at the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM). I earned my Master of Science in Biology from ULM in May 2020. I believe in continuous improvement, so I've completed micro-credentials through the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) and engaged in advanced training concerning the integration of artificial intelligence in educational environments through the University of Louisiana System (ULS).

My professional career at ULM began immediately following my graduate studies as an adjunct instructor. In July 2021, I transitioned to a full-time faculty position, where I now serve as both a biology instructor and the Core lab manager for the School of Sciences. In August 2022, I was appointed lab coordinator for the introductory biology laboratory course for science majors. In this role, I've implemented significant curricular revisions, including the implementation of a Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE), the establishment of a service-learning component, and the comprehensive revision of the laboratory manual.

As a lifelong resident of Monroe, I am deeply invested in the advancement of STEM education within the region. I actively volunteer my time to initiatives focused on preparing future ULM students for academic success and contributing to the broader educational landscape of Louisiana.

Research Interests

My research interests lie at the intersection of molecular biology, pedagogical innovation, and undergraduate research mentorship. My foundation in molecular biology and biotechnology was solidified during my Master's studies at ULM, where I focused on the protozoan parasite Giardia lamblia. Our research group aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of translation initiation within this model eukaryote. This experience provided me with a strong understanding of molecular techniques and experimental design, further enhanced by my current role managing the Core lab facilities, which house advanced instrumentation for molecular and biotechnological research.

Building upon this scientific foundation, I have developed a keen interest in pedagogical research, specifically in the implementation and assessment of Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs). From 2022 to 2023, I conducted pedagogical research centered on a CURE within ULM's introductory biology lab. This project engaged students in investigating the effects of common environmental pollutants on Bayou ecosystems, utilizing microcosms created with resources from Bayou DeSiard. This CURE aimed to not only improve students' understanding and application of the scientific method but also to reinforce key biological concepts related to ecology, microbiology, and molecular biology. My research focused on evaluating the efficacy of this CURE in achieving these educational goals.

Furthermore, I am passionate about mentoring undergraduate researchers. Through the Emerging Scholars program at ULM, I have guided students through the process of analyzing and presenting microbial data collected from the CURE. This mentorship experience has allowed me to foster students' scientific communication skills and prepare them for participation in local and regional conferences. My aim is to continue exploring innovative pedagogical approaches that enhance student learning and engagement in the sciences, while also providing meaningful research experiences that empower the next generation of scientists.

Courses Taught

BIOL 1001LIVING WORLD, 4 course(s)

BIOL 1006WHAT IS INFECTIOUS DISEASE?, 1 course(s)

BIOL 1020PRINCIPLES OF BIOLOGY I, 3 course(s)

BIOL 1021PRINCIPLES BIOLOGY I LAB, 17 course(s)

BIOL 2015INTRO MICRO LABORATORY, 6 course(s)

BIOL 2016ALLIED HEALTH MICROBIOLOGY, 1 course(s)

BIOL 3006GENETICS LABORATORY, 2 course(s)