معرفی
Clifton Franklund is a Professor of Microbiology in the Department of Biological Sciences at Ferris State University's College of Arts, Sciences and Education. He actively teaches microbiology courses while conducting research on bacterial genetics, anaerobic bacteria, and wastewater-based epidemiology, and contributes to student learning assessment and General Education program development.
- PhD, Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University, Microbiology and Immunology
- Certificate, James Madison University, Higher Education Assessment Specialist
- MS, North Dakota State University, Bacteriology
- BA, Concordia College, Biology, Minor in Philosophy
Dr. Franklund has extensive expertise in anaerobic bacteria cultivation, bacterial genetics, bioinformatics, and reproducible research methods. His research bridges traditional microbiology with modern data science approaches, focusing on environmental monitoring and public health surveillance. He's particularly known for applying computational methods to biological problems and innovating in educational assessment practices. His teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications of microbiological principles.
Analysis of his recent publications (2021-2023) reveals a strong shift toward applied public health microbiology, with most work focused on wastewater-based SARS-CoV-2 surveillance and water quality testing for recreational environments. Earlier in his career (1990s-2000s), his research centered on bacterial genetics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and bile acid metabolism in Eubacterium species. This evolution demonstrates his ability to adapt research focus to address contemporary health challenges while maintaining core microbiological expertise.
- Outstanding Course Assessment (2015)
- Top 25 STEM Professor in Michigan (2013)
- Ferris State University Distinguished Teacher of the Year (2012)
- Softchalk Higher Education Online Challenge Winner (2011)
- Exemplary On-Line Course, Web Enhanced (2007)
Dr. Franklund actively mentors undergraduate researchers, with numerous students co-authoring his recent publications and presenting at regional conferences including the West Michigan Regional Undergraduate Research Symposium and Michigan Society of Toxicology meetings. His research program integrates classroom instruction with real-world public health applications, particularly in wastewater surveillance. He has developed innovative assessment tools and reproducible research methods that enhance both student learning and scientific rigor in his field.
His laboratory work focuses on environmental microbiology applications for public health monitoring, particularly wastewater-based epidemiology. Through collaborations with local health departments and student researchers, his team has established ongoing surveillance systems for tracking SARS-CoV-2 variants and water quality indicators in West Michigan. His involvement with Software Carpentry and the Center for Open Science demonstrates commitment to open science practices and computational approaches in microbiological research.
