FROM THE CHAIR

The Biology Department is pleased to announce that a new faculty member has been hired for next year. Dr. Casey Finnerty, who received his Ph.D. in Entomology from Cornell University, will be teaching Cell Biology, Genetics, and other courses. Thanks to all who participated in the search process, including students who attended the seminar presentations by the candidates and provided helpful feedback.

Many of our faculty members are busy outside of the classroom with activities that are “behind the scenes” but contribute to the continued success and visibility of our department. Some of these activities are perennial; some of them arise only occasionally but demand much time and energy during concentrated periods of time. At the risk of leaving many of these contributions out, I’d like to acknowledge some: Drs. McConville and Minnerath direct the Resource Analysis and Allied Health programs, respectively, which indirectly or directly provide many opportunities for our students to continue professionally. Dr. Minnerath recently completed the five-year review process for continuing the accreditation of our nuclear medicine technology program. Dr. Martin recently directed the Southeastern Minnesota Regional Science Fair and continues as District Director of Beta Beta Beta. Dr. Krainock this year took on the role of advisor to our students in the Mayo Scholars program, while Dr. Korte continues as a member of the board of trustees at Alverno College. And who are we going to get to keep our Journal Club, Biology Department Seminar, and Undergraduate Research Symposium going when Dr. Kowles steps down this year?

“We’re going to need a bigger culture dish!” Another award-winning cauliflower was produced by the Tuesday morning Botany/Zoology lab section as a result of the cauliflower-cloning experiment. Other awards (not pictured) went to students from other lab sections for Most Prolific Growth of Bacteria and Best in Show (Fungal Category). April Fools!