David L. Dufeau

David L. Dufeau, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Anatomy at Marian University's College of Osteopathic Medicine (MU-COM). With over eight years of teaching experience, he previously held positions at the University of Missouri School of Medicine and Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. He holds a B.S. in Geological Sciences (minor in Zoology) and an M.S. in Vertebrate Paleontology from the University of Texas at Austin, and a Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology from Ohio University.

Research Focus: Dr. Dufeau investigates the evolution of cranial pneumaticity and its impact on neurosensory functions like hearing in vertebrates. His work focuses on crocodilians, dinosaurs, and birds, combining fieldwork across global natural history collections with advanced 3D visualization techniques. He applies these methods to recreate functional anatomy in extinct species and translate findings into medical education tools.

Laboratory Leadership: Dr. Dufeau directs the 3D-Visualization Laboratory within MU-COM's Anatomy Research Group. The lab employs 3D scanning, reconstruction, and printing to develop interactive anatomical models (e.g., cerebral vasculature, knee joint systems, brainstem nuclei) that enhance spatial understanding of diagnostic imagery (CT/MRI) for medical trainees.

Educational Innovation: Medical students in his lab create 3D animations, interactive PDFs, and visual resources for clinical training. These tools are integrated into lectures, labs, and research presentations, with student projects regularly featured at academic symposia.