Enhancing Student Learning in the Sciences

The Department of Biochemistry plays a key role both in educating students in the theoretical and practical aspects of biochemistry and in laying the foundation for student success in various life sciences programs at the University of Toronto. Trained as both scientists and educators, our faculty pursue research in science pedagogy to better facilitate the development of critical thinkers prepared for post-graduate careers and life-long learning, either in the workplace or in professional and graduate schools.

In addition to the ongoing curriculum development necessary in an ever-changing research landscape, faculty are actively engaged in endeavours aimed at transforming the student experience. These strategies include the use of active learning and new technologies in the both the online and in-person classroom, hands on learning in teaching laboratories and active research labs, and interdisciplinary programming through collaboration in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine. Students and faculty in the department also have the benefit of enhanced mentorship, supervision, and professional development.

Faculty Conducting Research in this Area

Stavroula Andreopoulos

With expertise in pharmacology and biochemistry, Dr. Andreopoulos provides award-winning leadership and scholarship in several thematic educational areas: large classroom and laboratory teaching, curriculum and pedagogical development, interdisciplinary program construction, and professional development of faculty and students. Her primary research focus is the implementation of novel technologically-enhanced tools to promote experiential learning.

Dr. Stavroula Andreopoulos

Jason De Melo

Dr. De Melo has an extensive background in teaching, research, and writing. His graduate and postdoctoral studies centred on protein-protein interactions and post-translational modifications related to tumourigenesis. As an educator, Dr. De Melo emphasizes the effective use of technology to enhance knowledge acquisition and engagement, with a particular focus on student mental health.

Dr. Jason De Melo

Ahlia Khan-Trottier

Dr. Khan-Trottier is a dedicated educator and academic administrative leader with experience developing curriculum, providing mentorship and support, and creating innovative approaches to enhance the student experience and foster development of competent and skillful graduates. Her present interests focus on the use of technological tools and active learning approaches to enhance student learning and collaboration in the teaching lab environment.

Dr. Ahlia Khan-Trottier

Nana Hyung-Ran Lee

Dr. Lee brings her experience in academia, industry, and family life to the table as pioneer and champion of professional development training in biomedical graduate education. Her research has led to the co-development of the innovative Graduate Professional Development course, the first Biomedical Career Workshop and the Life Science Career Expo, and two books on navigating graduate school and beyond.

Dr. Nana Hyung-Ran Lee

Sian Patterson

Dr. Patterson’s research focuses on the integration of new approaches to undergraduate life sciences training to encourage lifelong learning. Recent research activities have centred on the implementation and evolution of online learning platforms for biochemistry education. By incorporating active learning, student self-reflection, mentorship, and educational-experiment activities, Dr. Patterson's work enhances the student experience in lectures, labs, and online.

Dr. Sian Patterson