Mark Barsoum Assistant Professor of Biology | Director, John Crosland, Jr. Center for Teaching & Learning

I came to Davidson in 2009 as a faculty member in the Biology Department and the inaugural director of the Math and Science Center, which is now part of the Center for Teaching and Learning. Prior to Davidson, I was a professor in the Natural Sciences Department at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte.

Currently, my work combines teaching, administrative, and research responsibilities. I teach our introductory biology sequence for majors, as well as our upper level course in human physiology and a seminar course on racism in medicine and biomedical research. My research focuses on inclusive pedagogy in biology that helps students better achieve learning outcomes in the undergraduate classroom.

I also direct our Center for Teaching and Learning, which serves as a faculty development and student support resource for the College.  I run or advise multiple programs to promote inclusion and equity in STEM: the FIRST Action Team’s mentoring program during the academic year and the RISE fellowship program during the summer, which provides early Davidson undergraduates with opportunities to do scientific research.

I currently serve on the Editorial Board of the journal CBE – Life Sciences Education, as a Guest Editor for the journal Advances in Physiology Education, and as a member of the College Board’s Development Committee for the Advanced Placement (AP) Biology Exam.

Teaching

• BIO 112  Organisms, Evolution, and Ecosystems
• BIO 262  Antiracist Physiology and Medicine
• BIO 310  Human Physiology