Research Assistant Professor Specialized in Biology

James M.

I’m James. I graduated from the University of Kentucky with a B.S. in Biology. During my time there, I was bitten by the research bug, which led me to pursue a Ph.D. in Pharmacognosy—an old word for drug discovery—at the University of Illinois Chicago. My dissertation focused on understanding exactly how certain antibiotics kill bacteria. I then completed my postdoctoral training at the National Institutes of Health, where I focused on RNA biology, before coming to Nashville to continue my career in biomedical research.

Throughout that time, one of my favorite parts of research has been teaching and mentoring the students who come through the lab. I’ve worked one-on-one with high school students, undergraduates, and graduate students, and I have also previously worked as an after-school biology tutor. These experiences have not only honed my teaching skills, but also shaped my perspective on education.

I strongly believe that advanced understanding begins with a solid grasp of fundamental biological principles. Rather than relying on memorization alone, I want students to understand why things work the way they do. Building that foundation creates knowledge that lasts and makes it much easier to understand new and increasingly complex ideas.

I’m ready to meet students wherever they are, from introductory biology to more advanced topics in genetics, cell and molecular biology, and biochemistry. Whether you’re a parent or a student, feel free to reach out to discuss your learning goals or schedule a lesson. I aim to respond quickly to all inquiries.