Biology Faculty & Staff
Pasteur 242
507.457.72822
Research Interests
Dr. Anderson’s research focuses on the intersection of herpetology, ecology, evolution, and physiology. Research in his labs spans both field work and laboratory studies.
His current research focuses on the growth and physiological performance of Boa constrictors.
Pasteur 228
507.457.5458
Research Interests
Dr. Bates’ research examines the prevalence and intensity of gastrointestinal parasites in fur-bearing mammals.
She also uses molecular techniques to determine the prevalence of Lyme disease in Ixodes ticks as well as the genetic relatedness of lungworm in different ruminants.
Pasteur 219
507.457.5287
Research Interests
Dr. Evenson’s research integrates organismal, physiological, and molecular approaches to answer questions related to:
- plant microbe interactions
- plant tissue culture for plant breeding
- plant responses to environmental stresses
Pasteur 236
507.457.5855
Research Interests
- Pathobiology
- Entomology
- Structural biology
- Biological computing
- Analysis of baculovirus-host interactions
- Protein structure/function relationships
- Molecular evolution
Pasteur 234
507.457.2261
Visit Mark Garbrecht’s academic website.
Research Interests
Research in Dr. Garbrecht’s lab focuses on the biology and metabolism of natural and synthetic glucocorticoids, as well as the impact of maternal and offspring diet on glucose metabolism and insulin secretion.
The lab uses a mix of molecular, cellular, and animal model systems.
Pasteur 226
507.457.5468
Research Interests
Dr. Groen’s interests include:
- neurodegenerative disorders peripheral neuropathy
- pharmacogenomics
- regenerative medicine
- drosophila genetics
Pasteur 224
507.457.5271
Teaching Interests
Dr. Peter Knopick teaches the clinical science courses for MLS majors and Microbiology 209.
His research background involved using murine models to study immune responses towards cancer. Specifically, he continues to investigate augmenting T cell responses in solid tumors.
His teaching approach uses examples from both clinical and research experiences to help prepare students for careers in healthcare.
Pasteur 238
507.457.2494
Teaching Interests
Dr. Larson’s teaching interests include preparing Secondary Life Science Teachers through inquiry lab experiences, service learning and supportive advisor-advisee relationships.
She enjoys working with students out-of-doors and in the lab, engaging them with evidence-based teaching strategies that help form analytical, highly qualified biology teachers.
Pasteur 248
507.457.5277
View Osvaldo Martinez’s academic website.
Research Interests
Research in Dr. Martinez’s lab focuses on studying host-pathogen interactions, specifically how Ebola and West Nile virus infect and deregulate human immune cells.
His lab is also developing a novel virus-like particle vaccine.
Furthermore, the lab is identifying new bacteria-killing phages and investigating their potential as therapeutics.
Pasteur 250
507.457.5695
View Neal Mundahl’s academic website.
Research Interests
Dr. Mundahl’s research centers on applied population and community ecology of fish, birds, and plants in regional streams, lakes, forests, and prairies.
His work seeks to explain the impacts of human activities on the structure and function of natural systems.
Pasteur 230
507.457.5272
Research Interests
Dr. Runck’s research combines field biology and molecular techniques to understand adaptations to changing environments.
Current research projects include gene expression in tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum) and post-glacial speciation in red-backed voles (Myodes sp.).
Pasteur 240
507.457.2594
Research Interests
Research in Dr. Segal’s lab focuses on control of gene expression in response to physiological stresses, including glucose deprivation and exposure to genotoxic agents.
One such agent is Cr(VI), which is a common industrial byproduct and strong carcinogen. Upon exposure mRNA becomes translationally repressed and can localize to P-bodies or Stress granules.
His lab uses cytological, genetic, molecular and biochemical approaches in both yeast and mammalian systems to study these phenomena.
Pasteur 232
507.457.2485
View Ted Wilson’s academic website.
Research Interests
Dr. Ted Wilson studies whether food health claims can be supported by measurable physiological changes. He studies pistachios, walnuts, low-carbohydrate diets, cranberries, cranberry juice, grape juice, creatine phosphate, eggplants, coffee, tea, energy drinks, and saber-toothed cats.
He also investigates the physiological processes related to hypothermia, diabetes, obesity, and heart failure. He enjoys coffee, family, hunting, fishing, logging, and farming.