Derek Tucker

Derek Tucker is an Assistant Teaching Professor at Arizona State University's School of Life Sciences. He holds a BS in Applied Biological Sciences from ASU, an MS from Georgia Southern University, and a PhD in Biology from Brigham Young University. His research focuses on herpetology, particularly the phylogenetics and phylogeography of South American lizards, alongside strategies for improving student-centered learning in biological education. He emphasizes active learning techniques in courses like General Biology, Animal Physiology, and Evolution.

Education:

• BS in Applied Biological Sciences, Arizona State University
• MS in Biology, Georgia Southern University
• PhD in Biology, Brigham Young University

Research Interests:

• Evolutionary biology and phylogenetics of lizards
• Optimizing active learning in STEM classrooms
• Biogeography and habitat specialization in reptiles

Publications Trends: Recent work spans lizard phylogenetics, conservation genetics, and educational pedagogy, reflecting his dual focus on biodiversity research and innovative teaching methods. Earlier studies explored locomotion biomechanics and population genetics of endangered species.

Advising & Grants: No formal advisees listed; focus remains on teaching and curriculum development.

Labs/Teams: Not explicitly mentioned in profile.