School of Science
Biological Sciences
Advancing Knowledge at the Frontiers of Living Systems
With a focus on rigorous scientific exploration, students delve into the foundations of biological systems through hands-on research, analytical skill building, and immersive learning experiences. Academic pathways span undergraduate and graduate study, offering opportunities to develop strong investigative techniques and effective communication within the biological sciences. The program prepares emerging scientists with the knowledge and skills needed for research, professional advancement, and health‑related careers.
Degree Programs
Select a degree program to take a look at the curriculum, course requirements, and application process.
News Spotlight
- Biological Sciences News
Hampton University is turning heads in the global agriculture scene, thanks to a high-impact discovery by Dr. Naoufal Lakhssassi, plant geneticist and professor in the Department of Biological Sciences. In...
Fueling Breakthroughs at the Frontiers of Life Science Research
Emphasizing a strong culture of faculty‑student collaboration, Hampton empowers emerging scientists to engage in meaningful inquiry and discovery. Research opportunities in Pre-Medical Sciences, Cellular and Molecular Biology, and Integrative Organismal biology are supported by state‑of‑the‑art laboratories and unique field resources that position students to contribute directly to advancing scientific knowledge.
Our Team Members
Dr. Shawn T. Dash
Interim Chairperson and Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Entomology, Biodiversity, Conservation Biology, Taxonomy, Evolution, Science Education, Ecology, Zoology
My research interests are broad, with a primary focus on insects, particularly ant ecology and systematics. I also explore various ecological and evolutionary fields. My work with undergraduates centers on biodiversity, especially in invertebrates like ants, as well as animal behavior and urban ecology. My lab has openings for students interested in bird ecology using large datasets, insect biodiversity, and the study of microplastics in the Hampton River.
Professional Positions Held
- 2021-current
- Hampton University (HU), Associate Professor. Department of Biological Sciences
Courses: Biology II Organismal, Organismal Biology Lab (Coordinator), Introduction to Biology Lab, General Zoology (lecture and lab), Toxic and Venomous Animals, Freshman Seminar, Research Design, Chesapeake Bay Biodiversity, and Student Research Problems (I & II)
- Hampton University (HU), Associate Professor. Department of Biological Sciences
- 2014-2021
- Hampton University (HU), Assistant Professor. Department of Biological Sciences
Courses: Introduction to Biology I, Biology II Organismal, Organismal Biology Lab (Coordinator), Introduction to Biology, Lab, General Zoology, Botany Medical Entomology, Research Design, Non-Majors Biology, Science-majors Biology, Toxic and Venomous Animals, Chesapeake Bay Biodiversity, Conservation Biology, and Student Research Problems (I & II)
- Hampton University (HU), Assistant Professor. Department of Biological Sciences
- 2006-2014
- El Paso Community College (EPCC), Adjunct Instructor. Division of Biology, Chemistry, and Architecture
Courses: Introduction to Biology I &II, Human Biology, Non-majors Biology, Invertebrate Zoology, and Anatomy and Physiology
- El Paso Community College (EPCC), Adjunct Instructor. Division of Biology, Chemistry, and Architecture
- 2012-2014
- University of Texas, Department of Biological Sciences, Lecturer
Courses: Introduction to Biology I & II, Animal Behavior, and Birds and Mammals
- University of Texas, Department of Biological Sciences, Lecturer
- 2011‑2012
- Gustvus Adolphus College (GAC), Visiting Assistant Professor, Department of Biology
Courses: Introduction to Biology (lecture and lab)
- Gustvus Adolphus College (GAC), Visiting Assistant Professor, Department of Biology
- 2005-2009
- The University of Texas, Department of Biological Sciences, Adjunct Instructor
Courses: Desert Ecology, Ecology, Animal Ecology, Entomology, Invertebrate Zoology, and Organismal Biology Laboratory.
- The University of Texas, Department of Biological Sciences, Adjunct Instructor
Awards and Recognitions
- 2016-2019
- Hampton University, TRIO Student Support Services Favorite Professor Award (multiple Awards one per year -2018 two awards)
- 2016
- Hampton University, Executive Vice President, and Provost Innovative Teaching Award
Curricula Development and Teaching Assignments | Current – Hampton University
Over the past decade, I have taught a range of undergraduate and graduate courses. I am committed to the power of education in shaping the future through mentorship and effective teaching. At Hampton University, I have taught the following courses:
- BIO 101: Nature of Life
- BIO 103: General Biology
- BIO 105: Introduction to Biology I
- BIO 106: Introduction to Biology II
- BIO 110: Freshman Biology Seminar
- BIO 210: General Botany
- BIO 211: Research Design Lecture
- BIO 220: General Zoology
- BIO 407: Special Projects
- BIO 408: Research Problems
- BIO 525: Conservation Biology
- BIO 541: Medical Entomology
- BIO 542: Toxic and Venomous Animals
Dr. Eric Lewallen
Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Genetics, Population Biology, Bioinformatics, Biomaterials
Dr. Indu Sharma
Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Microbiology, Microbial Physiology, Microbial genomics, RNA biology, 16S sequencing, Barcoding
Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson
Professor
Areas of Expertise: Molecular Biology, Matrix Biology, Tissue Biogenesis, Basement Membranes, and Science Education
Dr. Jermel Watkins
Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Medical Physiology
Dr. Linda L. Hensel
Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Biofilm Inhibition and Eradication
Dr. Mekel Richardson
Assistant Professor
Mr. Michael D. Druitt
Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Botany, Systematics, Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Science, STEM Education, Health Disparities in African-Americans, Grip Strength Comparison Studies
Dr. Naoufal Lakhssassi
Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Molecular Biology, Plant physiology, genetics, Functional genomics, and mutational breeding.
Dr. Natasha R. Mavengere
Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Botany, Systematics, Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Science, STEM Education
Dr. Qingyu Chen
Lab Coordinator
Areas of Expertise: Cell Biology, Molecular Biology
Dr. Rajeev Chandra
Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Cell Biology, Molecular Biology
Dr. Yvonne Affram
Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Virology, Immunology
Your support fuels innovation in the School of Science. Contributions help create state‑of‑the‑art learning environments by funding new laboratories and providing advanced equipment that empowers students and faculty to push the boundaries of research and technology.