David Sharlin

Dr. David Sharlin is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Minnesota State University, Mankato, within the College of Science, Engineering & Technology. His research focuses on thyroid hormone's role in nervous system and sensory system development, particularly investigating neurocognitive and auditory deficits linked to congenital thyroid diseases and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. He actively teaches Human Anatomy (BIOL220/BIOL325), Developmental Biology (BIOL424/425), and contributes to the NSF-funded RISEbio Program, emphasizing critical thinking and independent learning.

Research Specializations

• Thyroid hormone's molecular and cellular mechanisms in brain development
• Interactions between thyroid hormone and Igf1 signaling
• Endocrine disruption by environmental chemicals affecting neural development
• Thyroid hormone transporters and their functional implications

Lab & Training Highlights

• Led the Sharlin Lab, which launched the RISEbio Research Stream on "Thyroid Hormone, Environment, and Development" (Jan 2025)
• Lab members have received multiple grants: Graduate Student Research Grants (Nathalia, Emily), Foundation Grants (Alisha, Nicole, D'Aaliyah, Matthew), and Supply Grants (Ainslee, James)
• Students have earned recognition, including Outstanding Abstract Awards at ENDO 2024 and presentation awards at URS 2023 and 2022 symposia

Scientific Awards

• Douglas R. Moore Research Lectureship
• Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award