Across the various disciplines within the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S), faculty meticulously craft course curricula and learning environments that integrate the most recent advancements and effective teaching methods specific to their fields. This conscientious approach ensures that students receive a high-quality, contemporary, and inclusive academic experience.
Heather Coleman, a professor of biology and a PULSE Fellow, is collaborating with scientists nationwide to enhance the teaching of undergraduate biology.
A&S faculty members are actively shaping the landscape of higher education through their roles in national foundations and institutes. For instance, biology professor Kari Segraves now serves as a program director for [national foundation], while Professor Mariaelena Huambachano holds an advisory position at the United Nations (UN). Joining this cohort is [name], an associate professor of biology, who recently earned the distinction of becoming a Fellow of the (PULSE), marking the first Syracuse University faculty member to hold this position.
Established in 2012 with support from the National Science Foundation, the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, and the National Institute for General Medical Sciences, PULSE is dedicated to enhancing undergraduate biology education by promoting inclusive practices and improving learning outcomes. The Department of Biology in A&S has already reaped the benefits of collaborating with PULSE through participation in the PULSE recognition program, which assists departments in fostering more inclusive teaching practices.
Aligned with Syracuse University’s Academic Strategic Plan, which emphasizes human flourishing and experiential inquiry, Coleman’s work with PULSE focuses on creating a more interactive, collaborative, and equitable biology curriculum, in line with the university’s core objectives.
Behzad Mortazavi, the Dean of A&S, acknowledges the positive impact of Coleman’s involvement with PULSE on the academic experience of students within the college.
Mortazavi states, “Professor Coleman has consistently shown a commitment to enhancing the innovative biology curriculum for our undergraduates. Her engagement and fellowship with PULSE serve as a testament to this dedication, and I eagerly anticipate her continued contributions to the success of students in SU’s biology program.”
As a PULSE Fellow, Coleman will engage with a broader community of life science faculty members from research institutions across the U.S., sharing insights and best practices in biology research and undergraduate education. She plans to leverage this knowledge by collaborating with her colleagues at Syracuse University to enhance the existing curriculum.
“I am enthusiastic about expanding my knowledge on supporting undergraduate biology students, enabling them to excel at Syracuse University and beyond. I am eager to contribute to PULSE’s mission of promoting inclusive, student-centered, evidence-based teaching and learning to nurture a diverse community of scientists,” says Coleman. “I am thrilled to be part of the PULSE network and learn from biologists who have been at the forefront of this work.”
Since joining Syracuse University in 2011, Coleman has been dedicated to enhancing undergraduate biology education within A&S. In her previous role as the department’s Director of Undergraduate Studies (2020-23), she spearheaded revisions to the Biology Curriculum Committee in alignment with recommendations from the American Association for the Advancement of Science. These revisions emphasized a student-centered approach, focusing on interactive, inquiry-driven, cooperative, and collaborative activities.
Coleman, who also served as the associate chair of the biology department, established the Biology Undergraduate Peer Mentoring Program and initiated departmental events such as BioFair and Biology Research Day to increase student engagement with biology-related clubs and resources on campus. She will continue to lead the Peer Mentoring Program and create additional opportunities for biology undergraduates to connect with the biology community starting in fall 2024.
In her research, Coleman investigates the formation of plant cell walls and the genetic and environmental factors influencing their properties, utilizing poplar trees as a model system. She has received multiple grants and awards to support her research endeavors, including an Early Career Award from the Department of Energy, a CUSE Good to Great Award, and a Syracuse Center of Excellence Faculty Fellow Award.
Coleman officially began her tenure as a PULSE Fellow in January.