Brian Gibbens

Brian Gibbens is a Teaching Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology within the College of Biological Sciences at the University of Minnesota. His office is located at 3-154 Molecular and Cellular Biology, 515 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455.

Dr. Gibbens specializes in innovative pedagogical approaches to enhance student success in biological sciences education. His research focuses on overcoming classroom challenges through evidence-based strategies targeting student motivation, gamification techniques, curriculum relevance to professional careers, mental health support systems, and comprehensive DEI integration. He examines how these interconnected elements shape learning outcomes and retention in STEM education.

His work bridges educational psychology with discipline-specific instruction, emphasizing practical applications that foster resilience and engagement among undergraduate biology students. Current projects explore the impact of game-like learning structures on knowledge retention and the development of inclusive classroom environments that address systemic barriers in science education.