Shane Roesemann is a 2024 WISCIENCE Scientific Teaching Fellow and graduate student in microbiology. He received a degree in biology from Northeastern University, where he studied antibiotic resistance in E. coli and circadian rhythms in butterflies. During his undergraduate experience, he participated in a study abroad program in Costa Rica studying tropical ecology. He then shifted these ecological principles towards microbial ecology as he studied the human gut microbiome at the Broad Institute. Now, he develops software to study microbial ecology in the lab of Jason Kwan. Outside of school, he enjoys birdwatching, rockhounding, making jewelry, hiking, and going to the movies.
What has been your favorite part of the Scientific Teaching Fellow program so far?
I really enjoy every aspect that explains and demonstrates the downsides of a purely lecture-based course format, as this was my primary method of instruction in undergrad. It is a really refreshing change of perspective.
What are you looking forward to doing in this program?
I am looking forward to solidifying the principles I learned in this program as I develop and teach Exploring Biology in the fall.
What are some of your career goals and how do you think this program will help you achieve them?
I intend on teaching in a primarily undergraduate institution once I graduate from my program, and so the ideas I’ve learned in this course are directly applicable to how I intend on giving instruction and demonstrating to employers how I intend on teaching.
What is one of the most valuable things you have learned as a Fellow?
The perspective that traditional teaching methods select for students who are the most receptive towards learning and therefore are a disservice to others.
What is something surprising or unexpected that you’ve experienced as a Fellow?
I did not realize how much thought and nuance is required for every single aspect of teaching. As someone who has taught previously with no instruction, it is natural to not think about details as small as the amount of time I allow between posing a question and helping the students get to the correct answer.
What excites you about teaching?
The best part about teaching is seeing an initially apathetic student get genuinely excited and articulate about the course material.
Learn more about Scientific Teaching Fellows.