About
Megan Bestwick serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Linfield University, where she maintains an active research program focused on mitochondrial biology and teaches core chemistry courses. Based in Graf Hall 216, she is accessible to students through scheduled office hours and can be contacted at 503-883-2265 or mbestwic@linfield.edu.
Her academic foundation includes:
- B.S. from Southern Oregon University (2001)
- M.S. from the University of Washington (2002)
- Ph.D. from the University of Utah (2009)
- Postdoctoral Fellowship at Yale University School of Medicine (2009-2013)
Dr. Bestwick's research program investigates fundamental mitochondrial processes with particular emphasis on transcriptional coordination between mitochondrial and nuclear genomes and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation through electron transport chain complexes. Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model system, her laboratory employs integrated approaches combining protein biochemistry, yeast genetics, and advanced analytical methodologies. This work addresses critical questions about cellular energy production and oxidative stress mechanisms with implications for understanding mitochondrial dysfunction in human diseases.
Her research program is distinguished by strong undergraduate involvement, supported by multiple National Science Foundation grants and private foundation funding. These resources enable year-round student participation in cutting-edge research, with undergraduates contributing to experimental design, data collection, and presentation at scientific conferences. Dr. Bestwick's mentorship philosophy emphasizes developing technical proficiency and scientific reasoning through authentic research experiences.
In the classroom, she teaches CHEM 400: Biochemistry, CHEM 340: Instrumental Methods of Analysis, and foundational chemistry courses, consistently integrating current research methodologies into laboratory components. Her laboratory environment fosters collaborative inquiry where students gain proficiency in biochemical techniques directly relevant to ongoing mitochondrial research projects.
