Wayne State University’s Department of Biological Sciences proudly recognizes its latest graduates, celebrating their achievements and contributions to the field. These alumni have demonstrated dedication and excellence in their studies, research, and professional development, preparing them for impactful careers in science, healthcare, and beyond.
Graduates from the program have explored diverse areas of biology, from genetics and ecology to microbiology and neuroscience. Many have contributed to groundbreaking research, engaged in hands-on laboratory and fieldwork, and participated in collaborative projects addressing real-world challenges. Their experiences at Wayne State have equipped them with the knowledge and skills to advance scientific discovery and innovation.
Master of Science
M.S. in Biological Sciences
| Name |
Year |
Presentation |
Advisor |
| Lisa Hanna |
2019 |
Spiracles, trachea, and glands: development and evolution of an insect respiratory system |
Aleksandar Popadic |
| Asia Hightower |
2020 |
Functional specialization of alternative zinc finger proteins in vegetative and reproductive meristem regulation |
Edward Golenberg |
| Julia Sosin |
2019 |
Successional changes in plant ecological species groups and fuels on a jack pine-dominated landscape in northern lower Michigan |
Daniel Kashian |
M.S. in Biotechnology
| Name |
Year |
Project |
Advisor |
| Lisa Koshko |
2020 |
Metabolic reprogramming by in utero maternal benzene exposure |
Marianna Sadagurski |
| Aaron Kren |
2020 |
Visualization of the effects of MSL recruiting elements on chromosome location |
Victoria Meller |
Master of Arts
| Name |
Year |
| Hazar Younis |
2020 |
Doctor of Philosophy
| Name |
Year |
Dissertation |
Advisor |
| Brooke Feeley |
2020 |
The role of SER/THR phosphorylation on MRPC, a master transcriptional regulator controlling the Myxococcus Xanthus developmental program |
Penelope Higgs |
| Han Cheong |
2019 |
Abelson tyrosine kinase links axon guidance receptors to cytoskeletal dynamics through protein-protein interactions mediated by its C-terminal domain |
Mark VanBerkum |
| Zuzer Dhoondia |
2020 |
Termination-independent role of Rat1 in cotranscriptional splicing in budding yeast |
Athar Ansari |
| Shashwat Mishra |
2020 |
Specific sensory neurons and insulin-like peptides modulate discrete stages of C. elegans oogenesis in response to food quality |
Joy Alcedo |
| Abby Wicks |
2019 |
Evolutionary ecology of the native Johnny Darter (Etheostoma nigrum) and the invasive round goby (Neogobius melanostomus): A genomic perspective |
Thomas Dowling |
The department extends its congratulations to the newest class of biological sciences alumni, wishing them continued success in their careers and future endeavors.