About
William H. Cliff is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Niagara University's College of Arts and Sciences, where he has taught since 1992. He concurrently serves as a visiting professor in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics at the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. Dr. Cliff directs Niagara's Program in Public Health and previously led the Pre Health Program and served as Pre-Health Adviser.
Educational Background:
- B.S. in Biological Sciences, Cornell University
- Ph.D. in Physiology, Cornell University
- Post Doctoral Studies in Physiology and Biophysics, University of Alabama at Birmingham
His research pioneers active learning methodologies in biological sciences, specializing in case-based approaches that repair student misconceptions through core concept frameworks in physiology education. This work bridges theoretical pedagogy with classroom implementation across undergraduate curricula.
Scientific Awards and Honors:
- Carnegie Scholar, Carnegie Academy for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning
- Faculty for the 21st Century, Project Kaleidoscope
- Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching Award
- American Physiological Society Award
Dr. Cliff has secured significant research funding including National Science Foundation grants for defining core principles in undergraduate physiology and awards from the American Physiological Society. He serves on the editorial board of Advances in Physiology Education and facilitates workshops for the National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science. His leadership extends to Niagara University's Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee and the University Committee on College Teaching and Learning.
