Jennifer Cochran Biederman ’05, M’08, Ph.D., joined Saint Mary’s University as an assistant professor of biology on Aug. 17.
Prior to joining Saint Mary’s, Dr. Cochran Biederman was an assistant professor of biology at Winona State University where her research focused on the conservation of freshwater ecosystems in southeastern Minnesota, including the application of citizen science monitoring to identify pollution in at-risk streams.
“I am really passionate about integrating hands-on research into the learning experience,” said Dr. Cochran Biederman. “As a freshwater biologist by training, I love finding opportunities to connect students with water and all of the incredible biodiversity it holds.”
Dr. Cochran Biederman holds a Ph.D. in conservation biology with a concentration in fisheries and aquatic biology from the University of Minnesota. She also holds an M.S. in wildlife and fisheries sciences from Texas A&M University, an M.A. in life science instruction from Saint Mary’s, and a B.A. in environmental biology from Saint Mary’s.
With many familial connections to Saint Mary’s, Dr. Cochran Biederman is grateful to be back at the institution.
“Since attending Saint Mary’s university as a student, I’ve had a great journey to graduate school and teaching at a mid-size public university. However, I’ve always missed the sense of institutional mission,” said Dr. Cochran Biederman, whose dad formerly taught biology at Saint Mary’s. “The Lasallian charism has really influenced my life, and I am so grateful to be immersed in that mission again. Even after just a few short weeks back on campus, I am reminded and excited about what a student-centered and high-quality education that’s offered at Saint Mary’s.”
Dr. Cochran Biederman has extensive research and field experience, has been the recipient of numerous grants and scholarships, and has authored supplemental content for four recent textbooks.
Join us in welcoming Dr. Cochran Biederman!
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