Faculty and Staff | Montgomery College, Maryland

Biology Department - Rockville Campus

Department Chair | Dept. Administrative Aides | Full-time Faculty | Part-time Faculty | Staff

Acting Department Chair

Vedham Karpakakunjaram

PhD, University of Madras, India

Email: vkarpaka@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5480

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234C

Biography

I am a Professor in the Biology Department, Montgomery College, Maryland. I started teaching at Montgomery College as a part-time faculty, in Summer 2008, eventually becoming a full-time faculty in Fall 2011. Currently, I teach General Biology (BIOL 101), Principles of Biology I (BIOL 150), Principles of Biology II (BIOL 151), a “Quality Matters”-certified blended version of BIOL 150 and Principles of Biology III (BIOL 252).

As part of the Z-degree initiative at Montgomery College, I have collaborated with Biology faculty to develop and offer Open Educational Resources OER-based BIOL 101 course. I have been a faculty associate for E-Learning, Innovation and Teaching Excellence ELITE division of Montgomery College and have co-facilitated a three-series workshop on Collaborative and Active Learning Techniques for the Academy for Teaching Transformation. I am the Collegewide Advising Coordinator for General Studies Program and serve in the Collegewide Curriculum Committee, as well. Previously, I have also served in the Rockville Faculty Senate for four years.

In November 2018, the community college faculty elected me to serve as the Secretary of 2-year Section of National Association of Biology Teachers NABT. My research and teaching interests include evolutionary biology, insect behavior and ecology.

I use my encounters with insects as part of classroom instruction – both as ice-breakers and as examples to explain concepts. My other interests are reading and movies Sci-Fi tops the list. Recently, I have started exploring use of social media to increase awareness of Community College’s relevance to education in the U.S.

Educational Background

BS, Zoology, Loyola College, Chennai, India
MS, Zoology, Loyola College, Chennai, India
PhD, Zoology, University of Madras, Chennai, India

Department Administrative Aide

Chelsea Yeatman

Administrative Aide II

Email: Chelsea.Yeatman@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-2387

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234B

Biography

I joined Montgomery College’s Biology Department in the spring of 2024. Prior to this role, I worked as the Administrative Aide I for the Department of World Languages and Philosophy here at the Rockville Campus. I am a dedicated administrative professional with over a decade of experience in office support roles across a wide variety of fields - a real Jill of all trades. From fitness, to finance, to data communications and now academia, I am ready to tackle any and everything.

Full-time Faculty

Rashidul Alam

ScD, Kyushu University, Japan

Email: rashidul.alam@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5021

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234M

Educational Background

BS, Biochemistry, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
MS, Biochemistry, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
Sc. D. Molecular Biology, Kyushu University, Japan

Leah M. Allen

PhD, University of Kentucky

Email: Leah.Allen@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5440

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234F

Biography

I received both my Bachelor of Science in Biology and my Doctorate in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of Kentucky, where my research focused on alterations in insulin signaling in heart muscle cells. Before joining Montgomery College in the fall of 2012, I was an instructor at the College of Coastal Georgia where I contributed to biology curricula and course development and directed some outreach programs for the college in addition to teaching biology courses. I currently teach face-to-face Human Anatomy and Physiology BIOL 212 and 213 as well as General Biology for non-majors BIOL 101. Since joining MC, I have focused my time on integrating technology into Anatomy and Physiology primarily with the use of tablet technology, i.e., iPad utilization by students to create Electronic Lab Notebooks. I am also the Course Coordinator for Human Anatomy and Physiology II BIOL 213.

My scientific interests include: cardiomyocyte signaling, environmental education’s impact on educators, and the impact of student-generated e-notebooks on college success.

Educational Background
BS, Biology, University of Kentucky
PhD, Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky

Michael Chase

PhD, University of Maryland at Baltimore

Email: michael.chase@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-4223

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234G

Biography

My goal as a biology professor here at Montgomery College is to provide students who take classes with me, a solid biological background which can be used to platform off of for success in academic endeavors, higher level science courses, as well as in other relevant matters of life career goals and making informed decisions.

MC is one of those rare community colleges that offers students scientific research opportunities and experience. Since I have had many years of research experience, I am always interested in conducting research with motivated students on various research projects. Research interests include: CRISPR-Cas 9 technology, gardening, and mycology.

Educational Background
BS in Biology – The Citadel, Charleston, SC
MS in Pathobiology – The University of Connecticut, Storrs
PhD in Human Genetics – The University of Maryland at Baltimore (UMAB), Baltimore, MD

James W. Cosgrove

PhD, University of Rochester School of Medicine

Email: jim.cosgrove@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-4136

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234J

Biography

I received my PhD, in Neuroscience from the Center for Brain Research at the University of Rochester School of Medicine. I did postdoctoral research at Scarborough College, University of Toronto. I worked at the NIH in the Aging Institute then the Neurology Institute. I worked at George Washington University School of Medicine before starting at Montgomery College. My continuing scientific interest is in molecular neurobiology of brain development.

Educational Background
BS, Biology, Drexel University
PhD, Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine

Antonio del Castillo-Olivares

PhD, University of Málaga, Spain

Email: antonio.delcastillo-olivares@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5406

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234L

Biography

I am a professor in Biology Department at Montgomery College, Maryland. I am a native of Spain and received my PhD, in Cellular and Molecular Biology, Masters in Biochemistry and Bachelors in Life Sciences from the University of Malaga, Spain. I also hold a certificate degree in Pedagogy from the same institution.

For the past 25 years, I have balanced my passion for teaching with the love for scientific research. My research experience ranges from cancer redox systems, cancer nitrogen metabolism, cholesterol and bile acid metabolism, sex determination transcriptional factors to human immunological molecular interactions. During my research career, I have mentored many undergraduate and graduate research students. Some of the courses that I currently teach and/or have taught include Chemistry I CHEM 131 lab, General Biology BIOL 101, Principles of Biology I BIOL 150, Genetics BIOL 222, Molecular and Cellular Biology BIOL 230 and Scientific Research SCIR 297. SCIR 297 is a course that I created in 2012, aim to provide our students with opportunities to do undergraduate scientific research at Montgomery College. Eventually, faculty from other STEM disciplines have also joined the team, providing opportunities for undergraduate students to gain research experience.

From Fall 2014 until Spring 2018, I was the BIOL 150 coordinator as well as one of the part-time faculty coordinators 2016-2018 for Rockville campus. During that time, and as part of the Z-degree initiative at Montgomery College, I have led Biology faculty to develop and offer an Open Educational Resources OER-based BIOL 150 course.

At the moment, I have the honor and privilege to be the Biology program advisor for the Rockville campus and to serve the college mission as a member of the Institutional Review Board for Montgomery College. As a Hispanic member of the Montgomery College family I embrace our policy of radical inclusion for our students. If you are a biology student, I will be happy to meet with you to discuss the courses that you need to take and plan your future semesters at Montgomery College. I am also a Paul Peck Humanities Institute/Smithsonian Institution Fellow.

Outside of Montgomery College, I love raising my three children together with my wife and training horses and dogs.

Educational Background
BS, Life Sciences, University of Malaga, Spain
MS, Biochemistry, University of Malaga, Spain
PhD, Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Malaga, Spain
Certificate in Pedagogy, University of Malaga, Spain

Sara Kalifa

PhD, Howard University

Email: sara.kalifa@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5096

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 244

Biography

I joined Montgomery College, Biology Department of Biology, in the Fall of 2015 as a full-time faculty. I am currently teaching Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II (BIOL 212 and BIOL 213) and Principles of Biology for majors (BIOL 150). I am the course coordinator for Human Anatomy and Physiology I (BIOL 212). I am the Faculty Advisor for the Medical Careers Club, and I am a member of the college wide MCAC (Medical Careers Advising Committee). I am elected to be part of the 2019 cohort for SET (Scholarship of Excellence in Teaching) program. I am a faculty associate for E-Learning, Innovation and Teaching Excellence (ELITE) and I am co-facilitating a three-series workshop on Collaborative and Active Learning Techniques for the Academy for Teaching Transformation.

I obtained a doctoral degree in Neuroscience and Neurodegenerative Diseases from Howard University. I also hold a medical degree of Veterinary Medicine from University of Berlin, Germany. Prior to joining Montgomery College, I worked as a post-doctoral scientist where we studied the role of PI 3-Kinase p110β in AKT signaling, cell survival, and proliferation in human prostate cancer cells. We also studied the ability of alpha-E2 to prevent Alzheimer’s disease associated hallmarks and/or behavioral deficits in an APOE genotype. I had taught Advanced Cardiovascular Physiology for several years at Howard University, College of Dentistry and Pharmacy. I also worked at George Mason University, Department of Biology. Among other things, I developed Advanced Human Anatomy Course for senior health science majors, acted as a coarse coordinator and taught Advanced Anatomy to graduate premedical students.

Educational Background

PhD, Neuroscience & Neurodegenerative Diseases, Howard University

BS, University of Leipzig, Germany

Veterinary Medicine, University of Berlin, Germany

Evdokia Kassini Kastanos

PhD, University of Texas at Austin

Email: evdokia.kastanos@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5478

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234E

Biography

I joined the Biology Department as a full-time faculty, in Spring 2017. Prior to this, I have been teaching as an adjunct faculty at Montgomery College, at the University of Maryland, College Park and the Baltimore County campuses. Currently, I teach General Biology BIOL 101, Principles of Biology I BIOL 150, Microbiology BIOL 210, Principles of Genetics BIOL 222, and Scientific Research SCIR 297. I am the BIOL 150 coordinator.

I obtained a Bachelor’s in Biochemistry, while on a Fulbright scholarship, followed by a PhD in Biochemistry, both from the University of Texas at Austin. After completing my doctoral research, I received a postdoctoral fellowship to work at the National Cancer Institute, NIH. Eventually, I returned to my native Cyprus for another postdoctoral fellowship in cancer. I later worked as an Assistant and then Associate Professor of Biochemistry at the Department of Life and Health Sciences of the University of Nicosia, in Cyprus. During this period, I also served as an Associate Had of Department. I returned to the US in 2013 with my family.

I have worked in cancer research for many years and more recently on a project to design new technology for the rapid diagnosis and antibiogram for urinary tract infections using Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy and silver nanoparticles. In collaboration with another faculty in my department, I am currently interested in studying the microbiome and the effects of different antimicrobials on biofilm formation.

Educational Background
BA, Biochemistry, University of Texas at Austin
PhD, Biochemistry, University of Texas at Austin

Shawn Lester

MS, Hood College

Email: slester@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5127

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234H

Biography

I actually began my career here at MC as a student at the Germantown campus. I received my bachelor's degree in biology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County UMBC. Then I returned to MC to work as the Instructional Lab Coordinator for Biology. After obtaining a master's degree in biomedical sciences from Hood College, I began to teach part-time here at MC and eventually I became a full-time faculty member. I teach Microbiology BIOL 210 during the day and Understanding Viruses BIOL 114 at night. I am also the course coordinator for Nutrition BIOL 226 as a distance learning course on the web.

Educational Background
BS, Biology, University of Maryland Baltimore County
MS, Biomedical Sciences, Hood College

Ishrat Rahman

PhD, University of Maryland at College Park

Email: irahman@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5476

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 243

Biography

My undergraduate degree and Masters are in Biochemistry from Dhaka University in Bangladesh. I completed my PhD in Microbiology from the University of Maryland at College Park in 1998. My first postdoctoral position was at the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences USUHS in Bethesda, MD for 2 years. I joined Food and Drug Administration FDA in 2001, as a postdoctoral fellow, and then became a staff fellow for about six years.

Educational Background
BS, Biochemistry, Dhaka University, Bangladesh
MS, Biochemistry, Dhaka University, Bangladesh
PhD, Microbiology, University of Maryland College Park

Victoria Schneider

MS, Villanova University

Email: victoria.schneider@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5479

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234K

Biography

My interests are ecology and evolutionary biology. I am a herpetologist by trade and I studied the phylogenetic relationships of a group of lizards endemic to southern Africa. I also studied the effects of ecological disturbances on amphibian populations in Michigan.

Educational Background
BS, Biology, Lycoming College
MS, Ecology/Evolutionary Biology, Villanova University

Aubrey A. Smith

PhD, Howard University

Email: aubrey.smith@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5126

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 242

Biography

I joined the faculty of the Biology Department at Montgomery College’s Rockville campus in the fall of 2007. Prior to my appointment, I worked in the private sector as a support scientist in the field of biological and chemical hazard prediction. I hold a BS, in chemistry from York College of the City University of New York and a PhD, in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Howard University. Aside from my teaching and service duties, I advise students who are interested in pursuing careers in biomedical research, science education and health professions. I am also involved in a scientific research course SCIR 297 which is designed to provide students with an opportunity to conduct meaningful lab-based scientific research projects. As of late, my students have attempted to express a cyanobacterial phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase enzyme in order to investigate its catalytic properties. Furthermore, I am investigating the phenotypic complementation of E. coli mutants by β-carboxylation enzymes. I also work with students on low-cost protein modeling and docking projects using widely available biocomputational tools.
I currently teach Principles of Biology I BIOL 150, General Biology BIOL 101 and Microbiology BIOL 210. I am the current BIOL 101 course coordinator.

Educational Background
DEC, Pure and Applied Sciences, Cégep Edouard-Montpetit
BS, Chemistry, York College, City University of New York
PhD, Biochemistry, Howard University

DEC, Pure and Applied Sciences, Cégep Edouard-Montpetit

Gina Wesley

PhD, University of Chicago

Email: Gina.wesley@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5122

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 241

Biography

My focus is on evolution and the fossil record. Paleontology has taken me around the world including museum trips to Europe and South Africa and field expeditions to Madagascar, Mongolia and Ethiopia. One of my favorite aspects of science is the international experiences involved.

Educational Background
BA, Northwestern University in Evolutionary Biology
PhD, University of Chicago, Committee on Evolutionary Biology

Part-time Faculty

Farah Adjel

Ph.D., University of Sétif - Algeria

Email: farah.adjel@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 301-222-7973

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC-118

Educational Background

B.S. Natural Sciences, University of Oum El Bouaghi - Algeria
M.S. Plant Ecophysiology, University of Oum El Bouaghi - Algeria
Ph.D. Plant Biology, University of Sétif - Algeria

Mohammad A. Ahmed

MPH, Johns Hopkins University

Email: mohammad.ahmed@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 331

Biography

I have extensive experience in the field of Medical and Public Health research. My research was focused on projects related to Maternal/Child Health at Kuwait University, School of Medicine. At Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, I worked for the ALIVE study that is concerned with the natural history of HIV/AIDS in a cohort of injection drug users. I have joined the Montgomery College in Spring 2018, where I enjoy teaching Human Anatomy and Physiology courses (BIOL 212 and BIOL 213).

Educational Background
MPH, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
M.B.B.S Medicine, Peshawar University, Pakistan

David Allen

Ph.D., George Mason University; M.S., Hood College; B.A., Hood College

Email: dallen13@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC118

Biography

I have worked as a research scientist for over 20 years. My environmental research interests include measurements related to biogenic carbon flux, coral reef health and restoration, and harmful algal blooms using remote sensing methods. I am also interested in Earth system science and exobiology. I have been teaching graduate and undergraduate classes (Environmental Chemistry and Environmental Biology) part time for over 10 years, joining MC in the Fall of 2018. In my experience, current science news events can provide valuable lessons in applying and understanding scientific principles. For me, the most rewarding part of teaching is meeting and working with students from a wide range of backgrounds.

Amal Alsufyani

PhD, National Institutes of Health (NIH)-George Mason University (GMU) Graduate Partnership Program

Email: amal.alsufyani@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC-118

Biography

Amal A Alsufyani joined Montgomery college on January 2018 as a part time faulty because she enjoys science education. She has a strong background in teaching, curriculum design and mentoring undergraduates to postbac, specifically pre-med students. She is a full time premedical training program developer at the Office of Intramural Training & Education, at the NIH. Her goal is to engage students in an active learning environment where they would be both academically challenged and supported.

Educational Background

Ph.D., Chemistry & Biochemistry, National Institutes of Health (NIH)-George Mason University (GMU) Graduate Partnership Program
MS, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Georgetown University
MS, Biochemistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Elaine Akst

PhD, University of Maryland

Email: Elaine.akst@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

I received my Bachelor’s of Science from Yale University. While there, I helped in an ongoing research project identifying genetic markers for Galapagos tortoises. I earned my PhD, in biology in a joint program between the University of Maryland and the Smithsonian Institute. I researched genetic variation and rates of molecular evolution within and between the four species of Spheniscus penguins. Most of my research was carried out in the genetics lab at the National Zoo, however I was lucky enough to do field work in a penguin colony in Patagonia. After earning my doctorate, I worked for 7 years at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC in their Fundamental Biology group and the Office of Program Analysis and Evaluation.

Educational Background
BS, Yale University
PhD, University of Maryland

Kaite Anderson

M.S., Towson University; B.S., Towson University

Email: kaite.anderson@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC118

Biography

I have a solid background in traditional teaching and outdoor adventure/education. My experience covers a number of biology sub-fields, with an emphasis on ecology and wildlife conservation. Because my "classrooms" have transitioned from traditional settings to nature centers to hiking trails to the hulls of rafts and canoes, I love to keep things active in the classroom. In all circumstances, my goal is to inspire students to see how the world of biology is woven into daily life, regardless of their personal career goals.

Christine Bozarth

PhD, George Mason University; BA, Connecticut College

Email: christine.bozarth@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC-118

Biography

Dr. Christine Bozarth is Professor of Environmental Science at Northern Virginia Community College. She earned her PhD in Environmental Science from George Mason University and her BA in Zoology from Connecticut College. She is passionate about the environment and loves teaching at community college.

Aisha Burton

Ph.D., Indiana University; B.A., University of Illinois at Chicago

Email: aisha.burton@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

I am currently a post-doctoral fellow at the NIH in the Storz Lab where I study small proteins that modulate stress responses within E. coli. I always had a passion for teaching, I decided to teach part-time as I continue my post-doctoral work. I joined MC in the fall of 2020 as an adjunct Biology instructor. I teach Biology 150 (Principles of Biology) and serve as an Achieving the Promise Academy coach for BIOL 150.

Akhter (Shoaib) Chowdhury

PhD, Kumamoto University, Japan

Instructional Lab Manager and Adjunct Faculty

Email: akhter.chowdhury@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-4124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234Q

Biography

I teach Principles of Biology I (BIOL 150) since 2006 and Microbiology (BIOL 210) since 2007. My doctoral research was on gene expression in the liver. Prior to joining Montgomery College in 2012, I was a research fellow at National Institutes of Health where I have studied regulatory mechanism of G-protein couple receptor. I have done my post-doctoral fellowship at the Johns Hopkins University where I also served as a research faculty. I have worked on brain specific gene expression and characterization, and have published my findings in prestigious journals like Neuron, Cell, etc.

I also work as an Instructional Lab Manager here at Montgomery College. I am a recipient of National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award and Montgomery College Staff Outstanding Service Award. I have completed many management-training camps, including NIH management boot camp, Facilitative Leadership training, Leadership Development Institute training and MC Management training. I have served in several college-wide committees including College Restructuring Committee, Middle State Self Study Working Group, President’s Advisory Committee on Equity and Inclusion

Educational Background

BS, Biochemistry, University of Dhaka
PhD, Molecular Biology, Kumamoto University

Cecilia L. Coscaron

PhD, La Plata National University, Argentina

Email: cecilia.coscaron@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

I am a Medical Entomologist with a passion for the study and control of vector borne diseases. My career took me to different parts of the world Germany, Brazil, Belize, Argentina and Ecuador where I did research and taught on river-blindness, malaria, dengue and chagas. My work in Galapagos Islands Ecuador and the Amazon jungle Ecuador and Brazil gave me the most interesting experiences and stories. I have published more than 30 scientific papers and authored 10 books.

Before joining Montgomery College, I taught Agricultural Zoology, and Ecology at Comahue National University, Argentina. Currently, I teach and/or have taught at Montgomery College General Biology (BIOL 101, BIOL 101L) and Environmental Biology (105, 106).

Educational Background

PhD, Natural Sciences – Natural Sciences Faculty and Museum, La Plata National University, Argentina

Licentiate in Biology – Natural Sciences Faculty and Museum, La Plata National University, Argentina

Olivia Dickens

PhD, University of Pennsylvania

Email: Olivia.Dickens@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

Olivia Dickens joined Montgomery College as Part Time Faculty in Fall of 2023. She received her Bachelor's degree from Howard University and her Doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania. Outside of her duties at Montgomery College, she works as a scientist in Industry.

Educational Background

BS, Physics, Howard University

PhD, Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania

Hillevi Ets

Ph.D., Drexel University College of Medicine; B.A., Salisbury University; B.S., Salisbury University

Email: hillevi.ets@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC118

Biography

I joined Montgomery College in 2019 where I teach introductory biology for life science majors (BIOL150) and human anatomy and physiology (BIOL212). Prior to teaching, I worked in a variety of research labs on topics like smooth muscle physiology and dysfunction, molecular effects of probiotic ingestion, pancreatic cancer metastasis, and chronic pain. Teaching is wonderful because it allows me to share my enthusiasm about science with others.

Dana Lynn Felice

PhD, Cornell University

Email: dfelicep@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

Currently, I am teaching Introduction to Environmental Science BIOL 105, and am on staff at the Part-time Faculty Institute’s Faculty Resource Center on the Germantown Campus. The past 6 years have been spent raising my son and daughter. Prior to that, I studied Environmental Science at Marist College, earned a PhD, in Environmental Toxicology/Cancer Biology/Nutrition from Cornell University, and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in breast cancer endocrinology at the University of Illinois at Chicago UIC. I also have experience as a free-lance manuscript editor.

I’m delighted to help the students of Montgomery College navigate the world through science while they reach for the stars!

Educational Background
BS, Environmental Science Biology Concentration, Marist College
PhD, Environmental Toxicology, Cornell University

Patricia Freitag

Ed.D, Boston University

Email: pfreitag@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5471

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

Worked as youth counselor and science camp leader, college upward bound science instructor for urban high school students, focused on marine and estuarine ecology research, as well as currently provide consulting support for the improvement of science teaching and learning through research and evaluation of NSF sponsored programs for minority scholars in STEM fields.

Educational Background
BS, Biology, Boston University
MS, Marine, Estuarine, and Environmental Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park
Ed.D, Science Education and Education Leadership, Boston University

Amina Gaber

MS, Michigan State University, East Lansing

Email: amina.gaber@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

I received my MS, degree from Michigan State University in 1994 majoring in Microbiology. Post-graduation I worked as a Chemist at Snell Environmental Group.
I have more than 15 years of teaching experience. Before joining Montgomery College in 2007, I taught biology, health science, nutrition and environmental science at Potomac College and University of Phoenix for five years. Currently I am teaching BIOL 101 at the Rockville Campus.
I have a passion for guiding students through their learning process to help them reach their goals successfully.

If I can be of any assistance in your study of biology, please visit me at my office SC-118 or email me.

Educational Background
BS, Chemistry/Computer Science, American University, Cairo
MS, Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing

Mahbanou Ghandiyazdi

M.B.B.S, Gulf Medical University; MD, Tehran University of Medical Sciences

Email: mahbanou.ghandiyazdi@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC118

Biography

I joined Montgomery College in Fall 2019 where I've been teaching Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II (BIOL 212, BIOL 213). I enjoy teaching and am dedicated to helping students reach their career goals and providing them the support they need. Prior to my teaching career, I worked as a physician for several years and am thrilled that I can share my practical hands-on experience in my teaching.

Anthony Gioio

MS, New York Medical College

Email: tony.gioio@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 301-402-7897

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 240

Biography

When I am not teaching Human Anatomy & Physiology at Montgomery College, I am a Molecular Neurobiologist who studies the biochemistry of nerves, more specifically the local protein synthesis the occurring in axons and presynaptic nerve terminals. I have been a research Biologist at Cornell University Medical College, The University of Pittsburgh and at the National Institute of mental Health I have taught at Westmoreland County Community College in Pennsylvania and Montgomery College.

Educational Background
BS, Biology, St. John’s University
MS, Biochemistry, New York Medical College

Haijing Hu

PhD, Cornell University

Email: Haijing.Hu@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

Dr. Haijing Hu Received her Ph.D. in Food Microbiology at Cornell University in 2003. She performed research on various biodefense projects afterwards, on Bacillus anthracis and Brucella. She joined Montgomery College as an adjunct faculty in 2021 teaching BIOL 150 Lab. She enjoys teaching and working with the students. In her free time, she likes gardening (not trying to repeat Mendel’s experiments on peas 😊) and video games.

Educational Background

BS, Biology/Microbiology, Nankai University

MS, Genetics, Chinese Academy of Science

PhD, Food Microbiology, Cornell University

Edward Jones

MS, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences; BS, Drake University

Email: john.doe@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC-118

Biography

I am originally from the great state of Iowa but I have spent several of my adult years moving around this great country and world working for the Department of Defense. I studied medicine at the Uniformed Services University but after the onset of cancer and subsequent epilepsy I enrolled in the Neuroscience program under Dr. Maria Braga. I have spent roughly 17 years in Maryland which my wife and I now call home. We have a son named Eddie and he is becoming the young man we knew he was destined to be. It is my distinct privilege to serve the Montgomery College community and I look forward to doing it for the years to come.

Tatyana Kliorina

MS, George Washington University

Email: Tatyana.Kliorina@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

I am a brand new ATPA Coach and am very excited to help Montgomery College students achieve their academic dreams and succeed in courses.

I am currently teaching as Assistant Professor of Biology (part-time) at the Northern Virginia Community College.

I am a passionate STEM educator with 10+ years of teaching experience focusing on Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology and General Biology courses. In the age of digital technologies and simulation experiences in the sciences, I am a firm believer in “hands on, project-based” approach to education.

In addition, I teach Zoology lab at the Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria campus. During the course, my students explore comparative anatomy of vertebrates and invertebrates through the series of dissections and external anatomical observations of various animal phylum including cnidarians, echinoderms, cartilaginous and bony fishes.

In my spare time, I enjoy gardening, long walks and spending time with family.

Educational Background

BS, Microbiology, University of Massachusetts at Amherst

MS, Molecular Biotechnology, George Washington University

Kelly Livernoche

M.S., James Madison University; B.S., Eastern Connecticut State University

Email: kelly.livernoche@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

My research as both an undergraduate and graduate student includes topics relating to forest composition after agricultural abandonment, plant-soil interactions of native and invasive species, analysis of soil quality and composition on cattle pastures, mapping and assessing urban trees affected by the emerald ash borer, and the effect of greenspace on the psychological and physiological health of college students. I joined Montgomery College in Spring 2019, teaching Principles of Biology I (BIOL 150) and Principles of Biology II (BIOL 151). My goals as an educator are to help students build a foundation to become lifelong learners, make biology fun and relatable, and learn just as much from my students as they hopefully do from me.

Glen McGugan

Ph.D., Clemson University; B.S., University of South Carolina

Email: glen.mcgugan@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, Rockville, SC 240

Biography

I am trained as a Parasitologist, and my graduate studies focused on the pathogenesis of a human protozoan parasite. Following graduate school, I joined the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)/NIH as a postdoctoral research fellow in 2004 where my research focused on the biochemistry and molecular biology of human parasitic pathogens. I am currently a Biologist and Health Science Administrator at the NIAID/NIH where I continue to focus on parasitic diseases and international programs. My career in tropical and parasitic diseases has afforded me the opportunity to travel to many parts of the world including several countries in Africa, South America, Asia and Europe.

I discovered my love of teaching during graduate school and sought out teaching opportunities during my postdoctoral fellowship at the NIH, which brought me to Montgomery College where I have been adjunct faculty in the Biology Department since 2006.

I am delighted to be part of the Montgomery College community and enjoy helping students achieve their academic and career goals.

I currently teach Microbiology (BIOL 210, BIOL 210L).

John Miller

Ph.D., University of Maryland, College Park

Email: john.miller@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC-118

Educational Background

MA. Biology(Marine), San Francisco State University

Ph.D. Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park

Peter N. Nassar

PhD, Bryn Mawr College / University of Pennsylvania

Email: peter.nassar@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

My undergraduate training was in vertebrate paleontology and sedimentary geology, spent digging up dinosaurs in northwestern Montana. As a graduate student, I transitioned into organismal biology and exercise physiology, performing lab-based research on vertebrate respiratory and locomotor mechanics during exercise. I’ve taught undergraduate level geology and biology, in addition to gross anatomy and histology at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine.

Educational Background
BA, Geology, Amherst College
PhD, Geology, Bryn Mawr College / University of Pennsylvania

Janet Norcross

PhD, University of Maryland

Email: janet.norcross@montgomerycollege.edu

Elsie Okoh Addo

MS, Case Western Reserve University

Email: Elsie.OkohAddo@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

I received my bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (go Spartans). I continued with my master's degree at Case Western Reserve University, where I graduated in December of 2022. My attitude towards service and teaching led me into the role of a teaching assistant in my second year of the program. I aimed to inspire and motivate as many first-year students as possible. I currently have over three years of teaching experience and many more years as a student; thus, I understand the challenges students face. I hope to inspire learners to believe in themselves and to enjoy the highs and lows that accompany the learning process.

In my spare time, I enjoy writing and blogging.

Educational Background

BS, Biology, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro

MS, Medical Physiology, Case Western Reserve University

Christina Porras

PhD, Brown University-NIH Graduate Partnership Program

Email: christina.porras@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC-118

Educational Background

PhD, Brown University-NIH Graduate Partnership Program
MS, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
BS, Texas Woman’s University

Short Biography:

As a masters student, I studied the regulation of mitochondrial respiratory complexes. In my PhD, I expanded this to investigate the effects of iron metabolism disruption in neurodegenerative disorders with a focus on behavioral deficits. I joined Montgomery College in Fall 2022 to teach Principles of Biology (BIOL 150) and serve as an embedded coach for BIOL 150.

Ahmed Raafat

PhD, Michigan State University, East Lansing

Email: ahmed.raafat@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 239

Biography

I received my PhD from Michigan State University MSU in 1994. Following my PhD, I did a postdoctoral fellowship at MSU and later joined National Institutes of Health NIH in 1999. My research focuses on the role of hormones, growth factors and oncogenes in cancer development. My primary interests include bioinformatics, cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, normal development, oncology, cell signaling and animal models.

During my scientific career I have published more than 26 papers, produced 3 patents, been invited as a speaker to national and international scientific meetings and received the NIH excellence in performance award for eight consecutive years. In 2017 my research was selected for a press release. In addition to my scientific work, I have multiple years of teaching experience.

I have been able to balance my passion of teaching and research. I taught multiple courses such as biochemistry, biology, cell and molecular biology human anatomy and physiology. In addition to teaching in a class setting, I have mentored many Post-Baccalaureate, Pre-Med students and Post-Doctoral research fellows at the NIH. Currently I am teaching BIOL 101 and BIOL 150 at the Rockville Campus.

I have a passion for guiding students through their learning process to help them reach their goals successfully. If I can be of any assistance in your study of biology, please visit me at my office SC-239 or email me.

Educational Background
BS, Animal Science, Cairo University
MS, Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing
PhD, Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing

Mohammad Rahman

Ph.D., University of Georgia; M.S., Long Island University

Email: mohammad.rahman@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC118

Qazi Mousumi Rahman

PhD, Stockholm University, Sweden

Email: qrahman@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 858-405-4937

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

I joined Montgomery College's Biology Department in Spring 2016. I teach General Biology (BIOL 101 and 101L) and Environmental Biology (BIOL 105 and 106).
I enjoy teaching students and have discussion about biology and environmental issues.
I received my Doctorate in Immunotoxicology, where my research focused on the effects of environmental pollutants on the immune system. Before joining Montgomery College, I was a postdoctoral fellow in Veteran Medical Research Foundation in collaboration with University of California, San Diego.
I also worked in pharmaceutical Company and several research projects, include: Micronutrient supplementation in anemic girls, Transformation protocol for plants, Immune response to heat shock protein, Airway allergic inflammation and Factors involve in insect hemolymph coagulation. My studies were published in 14 peer-review journals.
I attended conferences and workshops (in Spain, Germany, Italy, France and Hawaii.) to present the research works. I also enjoyed their history, culture and food.
In the college, I encourage my students actively participate in the class and meet one to one to discuss about their progress and successfully get their degree.
I love to spend my time with my family.

Educational Background
PhD, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Sweden
Degree Project (=MSc) Immunology, Stockholm University, Sweden
MSc, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dhaka University, Bangladesh
BSc, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dhaka University, Bangladesh

Misook Uh

PhD, Rosalind Francklin University of Medicine and Science

Email: muh1@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

I concern the gap between what is taught in classroom and what students get after the class. I employ several ways to narrow the gap such as frequent quizzes, assignments or interactive problem solving in class room. There are frequent pauses and questions during the class to get student’s response. I seek opportunities to get to know my students outside classrooms as well since students who get special attentions often have better outcome. My reward is when students learn well and move forward to better places.

Educational Background
BS, in Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, South Korea
PhD, Biochemistry/ Molecular and Cellular Biology, Rosalind Francklin University of Medicine and Science
PharmD, Howard University

Carylinda Serna

PhD, BSc

Email: cserna@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC-118

Scott Waterman

PhD, The University of Adelaide

Email: swaterma@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5470

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

I have over 30 years’ experience working as a Research Scientist at the NIH, University of Illinois at Chicago, Imperial College, and Rocky Mountain Laboratories. My research has focused on the molecular mechanisms and genetics of bacterial and fungal pathogens in order to understand how they cause disease. I have also worked at the Hanson Institute for Cancer Research identifying genes associated with breast cancer, angiogenesis, viral infection, apoptosis, and signal transduction pathways using DNA microarray technology. I have extensive teaching experience as an Adjunct Professor at the City Colleges of Chicago, Montgomery College, Stratford University, Trinity Washington University, and Marymount University. The courses I have taught include Microbiology, General Biology, Principles of Biology, Medical Terminology, and General Science. I have also taught as a Volunteer Lecturer to medical students at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. I have attended numerous Grand Rounds and Case Studies presented by Physicians at the Department of Infectious Diseases at UIC and the NIH.

Educational Background
B.Sc. Microbiology & Immunology/Genetics, The University of Adelaide
B.Sc. Hons Microbiology, The University of Adelaide
PhD, Microbiology, The University of Adelaide

Douglas White

PhD, Howard University; MS, Hampton University; BS, Longwood College

Email: douglas.white@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC-118

Biography

I joined the faculty of the Biology Department at Montgomery College’s Rockville campus in the fall of 2021 as an adjunct faculty member. Prior to my appointment, I worked in the private sector as a Biomedical Life Scientist and was a member of a team that supported program management and research proposal funding processes for the Army. I also served as a Patent Examiner at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, where I researched new innovative biological and microbiological inventions/abstracts submitted for evaluation and comparison of current methods and practices to determine if the new approach was uniquely allowed/granted. I have also taught General Biology at Hampton University and Microbiology at Prince George’s and Frederick Community Colleges. I currently teach full time at Howard University, where I am the General Biology Coordinator. I hold a B.S. in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry from Longwood College, M.S. in Biology from Hampton University and a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Howard University. I currently teach Microbiology BIOL 210. My goal as an educator is to intellectually stimulate, enlighten, and broaden the minds of the next generation of scholars, all while simplifying incredibly complex principles in Microbiology and stressing the relevance of the subject to my students’ daily lives and careers. Teaching a diverse student body is also important to me. Diversity doesn’t only relate to race and ethnicity; but can include students of different religions, economic statuses, sexual orientations, gender identities, and language backgrounds. My goals are realized here at MCC with its very diverse and engaged student body.

Adeline Williams

PhD,Colorado State University

Email: Adeline.Williams@montgomerycollege.edu

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 118

Biography

I received a BS in Public Health and a BA in English from Tulane University and then went on to obtain an MPH in Infectious Disease Epidemiology from Yale University. I received a PhD from Colorado State University in collaboration with the Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research at NIAID/NIH where I studied genetically modified mosquitoes resistant to virus infection. I am currently a postdoctoral researcher at NIH focused on how arthropod salivary proteins impact bloodfeeding and pathogen transmission. I teach Microbiology lecture & laboratory (BIO 210) and serve as an ATPA coach.

Educational Background

BA, English, Tulane University

BS, Public Health, Tulane University

MPH, Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Yale University

PhD, Microbiology, Colorado State University

Amy Wynia

Ph.D., University of North Texas; M.Sc., Arkansas State University; B.Sc., University of Rhode Island

Email: amy.wynia@montgomerycollege.edu

Biography

An avian ecologist by training, I have an affection for many areas of ecology and biology. In Fall 2020, I had the pleasure of joining the MC community as a Principles of Biology 1 (BIOL 150) lecture and lab instructor. I have taught Natural History of the Chesapeake Bay (BIOL 111) and serve as an Embedded Coach in BIOL 150 for Achieving the Promise Academy (ATPA). I love discussing my research, sharing my passion for science, and supporting students as they navigate college in pursuit of professional and personal success.

Staff

Farid Ahmed

PhD, Kobe University, Japan

Instructional Lab Coordinator

Email: farid.ahmed@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-4338

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 208

Biography

I am a biologist with a bachelor, master and PhD, in Anatomy. I have more than 20 years of experience in the field of neurodegeneration, regeneration, neuroprotection, microbiology, molecular and cell biology. I have performed my work on Neuroophthalmology, Neuroscience, Neurotrauma and HIV related CNS disease and sought for biomarkers as diagnostic tools as well as understands the molecular mechanisms of different neurodegenerative diseases using different and broad set of laboratory techniques. I have authored and coauthored more than 45 scientific articles published in various peer-reviewed journals. Before joining Montgomery College, I worked in many prestigious academic institutions including New York Medical College, National Institute of Health (NIH), Georgetown University, Johns Hopkins Applied Physics lab and Uniform Services University.
During my employment in these institutions, my responsibilities have included supervision and mentoring of students and technicians, operating, maintaining and troubleshooting lab equipment, maintaining live cultures of bacterial, plant, fungal and animal cell lines and establishment of research and general laboratory guidelines including lab safety policies and procedures.

Educational Background
BS, Anatomy, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
MS, Anatomy, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
PhD, Anatomy, Kobe University, Japan

Akhter (Shoaib) Chowdhury

PhD, Kumamoto University, Japan

Instructional Lab Manager and Adjunct Faculty

Email: akhter.chowdhury@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-4124

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 234Q

Biography

As an Instructional Lab Manager, I supervise all lab support staff and ensure the day-to-day operation of the laboratories. I also oversee budget, lead and assist in lab curriculum development. In addition, I am also responsible for implementation of safety guidelines, and make sure that all faculty and staff complete required training. I also teach Principles of Biology I (BIOL 150) and Microbiology (BIOL 210) as a Part-time faculty.

My doctoral research was on gene expression in the liver. Prior to joining Montgomery College in 2012, I was a research fellow at the National Institutes of Health. I have done my post-doctoral fellowship at the Johns Hopkins University where I also served as a research faculty. I have worked on brain specific gene expression and characterization, and have published my findings in prestigious journals like Neuron, Cell, etc.

I am a recipient of the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award and Montgomery College Staff Outstanding Service Award. I have completed many management-training camps, including NIH management boot camp, Facilitative Leadership training, Leadership Development Institute training and MC Management training. I have served in many college-wide committees including College Restructuring Committee, Middle State Self Study Working Group, President’s Advisory Committee on Equity and Inclusion.

Educational Background

BS, Biochemistry, University of Dhaka
PhD, Molecular Biology, Kumamoto University

Arifur Rahman

PhD, Tohoku University, Japan

Instructional Lab Coordinator

Email: arifur.rahman@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-7228

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 213

Biography

I joined Montgomery College in 2013 as an Instructional Lab Coordinator in the Biology department and currently coordinating two Biology lab BIOL150 and BIOL 230. My doctoral research was on Cloning, sequencing, and characterization of the complete Leucocidin gene from Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Prior to joining the Montgomery College, I was a Senior Research Scientist at Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI) of Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences (USUHS), Bethesda, Maryland. Worked with Primates on Proteomic changes after Radiation. I have more than 25 years of postdoctoral research experience in the US and abroad and got more than 20 Scientific publications in a peer-reviewed journal. I enjoy working in a laboratory. During my free time, I volunteer in social and cultural community organizations.

Educational Background
BS, Biochemistry, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
MS, Biochemistry, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
PhD, Applied Molecular Microbiology, Tohoku University, Japan

Jennifer Sengbusch

MS, Johns Hopkins University

Instructional Lab Coordinator

Email: jennifer.sengbusch@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-5123

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 222

Biography

I have over 10 years of experience in the field of biology where I worked at Johns Hopkins University and Human Genome Sciences, Inc. I earned a MS, in Biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University and a BS, in Biology from the University of Maryland. Prior to joining Montgomery College, I worked for Big Learning Science and Engineering where I was a teacher, trainer, curriculum writer, and developed projects for outreach events and school day programs. I am passionate about science and enjoy sharing my knowledge by serving the student community.

Educational Background
BS, Zoology, University of Maryland
MS, Biotechnology, Johns Hopkins University

Ya-Yu Shao

BS, Salisbury State University

Instructional Lab Coordinator

Email: ya-yu.shao@montgomerycollege.edu

Phone: 240-567-7229

Office Location: Rockville Campus, SC 202

Biography

I worked in the Biopharmaceutical department at Fort Detrick for 5 years. I performed analytical chromatography and operated a spectrophotometer and ran gel. Since 2005, I’ve been working as an Instructional Lab Coordinator. I enjoy the chance to help students learn biology. I also volunteer to pick up unsold food from stores and distribute it free to hungry students.

Educational Background
BS, Salisbury State University