The following was submitted as part of the CASE Dean’s July 2026 Newsletter.

The biological sciences department is helping shape the future of Missouri S&T by integrating biology with engineering, computing and technology to address some of society’s most pressing challenges. From biomedical innovation and human health to environmental sustainability and space exploration, the department’s faculty and students are redefining what it means to be a biology program at a technological research university.

That momentum has been reflected in an exceptional year of faculty recognition. Dr. David Westenberg,Curators’ Distinguished Teaching Professor, received the 2026 Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, the University of Missouri System’s highest honor for teaching excellence, recognizing nearly three decades of innovative, student-centered instruction and mentorship.

The department also celebrated several prestigious national and university honors. Dr. Melanie Mormile was elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)for her internationally recognized contributions to environmental microbiology, while Dr.Robin Verble was named a 2026–27 Fulbright U.S. Scholar and will conduct research in Ecuador focused on insect biodiversity and conservation. Dr. Andrea Scharf received the 2025 CASE Faculty Research Award, Dr. Katie Shannon received the 2025 CASE Faculty Achievement Award, and Dr. Matthew Thimgan earned the 2025 CASE Faculty Service Award, reflecting the department’s commitment to excellence in research, teaching, and service.

Biological Sciences students continue to distinguish themselves through research, innovation and leadership. Several biology students were members of Missouri S&T’s Mars Rover Design Team, which captured its second consecutive University Rover Challenge world championship, demonstrating how biological expertise contributes to solving challenges in astrobiology, life-support systems and planetary exploration.

The department also played a leading role in the Global Health Innovation Grand Challenge, where three interdisciplinary Missouri S&T teams advanced to the international semifinals in Taipei, Taiwan. Students from Biological Sciences worked alongside peers from engineering and computer science to develop innovative solutions addressing wound healing, inflammatory bowel disease, and neonatal respiratory care. The teams grew from Dr. Julie Semon‘s Biodesign and Innovation course, highlighting the department’s emphasis on entrepreneurship, translational research and interdisciplinary problem solving.

Beyond research, Biology students continue to make meaningful contributions to their communities. Amelia Markwell, a senior majoring in biological sciences, was elected to the Rolla City Council, demonstrating the leadership and civic engagement fostered within the department.

The department continues to expand educational opportunities that prepare students for rapidly evolving careers in medicine, biotechnology, environmental science and research. Building on the successful launch of its Ph.D. program, Biological Sciences is developing new educational pathways in healthcare-related disciplines, biotechnology, and environmental resilience, while integrating artificial intelligence, genomics and bioinformatics throughout the curriculum.

Looking ahead, the department is leading efforts to strengthen Missouri S&T’s biomedical research enterprise through expanded capabilities in spatial biology, multi-omics, advanced imaging and interdisciplinary collaboration. Together with its nationally recognized faculty, outstanding students and growing research portfolio, Biological Sciences is helping position Missouri S&T as a destination for innovation at the intersection of biology, engineering and technology.