Kene Piasta

Kene Piasta is an Associate Professor of Biology in the Department of Biology at Brandeis University, where she is deeply engaged in science education, curriculum development, and inclusive pedagogy. Her work bridges foundational biology with modern research practices, particularly in laboratory instruction and biostatistics.

Her educational background includes a B.S. from Northeastern University and a Ph.D. from Brandeis University. She completed postdoctoral training at the University of Colorado, Boulder, in the laboratory of Professor Joe Falke, focusing on bacterial chemotaxis.

Kene Piasta's research and teaching interests center on biology education, with strong emphases on scientific communication, digital literacy in science (e.g., using R in biostatistics), and creating authentic research experiences in undergraduate labs. She is particularly passionate about increasing inclusivity and retention of underserved populations in STEM through near-peer mentoring programs such as the Galaxy program, which she currently directs.

Although no publications are listed in the provided text, her career trajectory reflects a shift from molecular biophysics research toward evidence-based teaching practices and educational innovation. Her work in curriculum redesign—such as updating lab courses and integrating data science tools—demonstrates a commitment to preparing students for contemporary scientific challenges.

• Louis Dembitz Brandeis Prize for Excellence in Teaching (2023)
• HHMI Inclusive Excellence Scholar (2019)
• Teaching and Learning Fellow, Brandeis University (2018–2019)
• Communication Fellow, Discovery Museum (2016)
• Student Editor, Biochemist Magazine (2011–2012)
• Student Research Achievement Award, Biophysical Society (2011–2012)
• Outstanding Teaching Fellow Award, Brandeis University (2008)
• FURI Scholar, Brandeis University (2002–2005)

Kene Piasta has been actively involved in mentoring and educational leadership throughout her career. She began mentoring as a doctoral student and expanded her role by coordinating the introductory biology laboratory course with Professor Melissa Kosinski-Collins. She has secured internal funding through fellowships and scholar programs to support her educational initiatives. Her mentorship extends to program direction, such as leading the Galaxy program to improve STEM retention via near-peer support. While no external grants are explicitly listed, her recognition as an HHMI Inclusive Excellence Scholar suggests involvement in funded diversity and education reform projects.

She is embedded in the Department of Biology at Brandeis University and works within the Carl J. Shapiro Science Center. While no formal lab or research team is described in the traditional sense, her educational initiatives constitute a scholarly team environment focused on pedagogical innovation, curriculum design, and student support systems. Her office is located in Shapiro Science Center, Room 016E, where she engages with students, faculty, and educational developers.