Kandace N. Thomas

Kandace N. Thomas serves as Assistant Professor of Biology within the Biology Department at Eastern University's College of Health and Sciences, teaching both lower and upper-level biology courses.

Her educational background includes advanced training in interdisciplinary scientific fields:

• PhD in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2021)

Dr. Thomas maintains a dynamic research program focused on cardiac development and function, utilizing embryonic chicken models to investigate genetic modifications affecting heart electrochemical dynamics. Her primary research examines how FLRT3 (an adherens junction antagonist) regulates cardiac pacemaker cell biology through in vitro transfection systems, fluorescence microscopy, and computer imaging software.

This work explores cellular mechanics influencing cardiac pacemaker cell genetics and physiology, with potential investigations into functional protein domains, gap junctions, and transcriptional landscapes. Her research program specifically emphasizes creating undergraduate research opportunities that bridge disciplines while addressing human health challenges.

Dr. Thomas actively mentors undergraduates in laboratory research, guiding experimental design and data collection using fertilized chicken eggs. While specific external grant funding isn't detailed, her work receives university support and integrates her professional training in science outreach and college teaching methodologies.

Her laboratory operates as an interdisciplinary training environment where students gain hands-on experience with advanced cellular imaging techniques while studying heart cell modifications and FLRT3's role in cardiac pacemaker function.