Dina Newman

Roles & Affiliations: Dina Newman is a Professor in the Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences at RIT, co-directing the Center for Advancing Scholarship to Transform Learning (CASTLE) and MBER. She holds a BS from Cornell University and MS/PhD from the University of Chicago. Her work bridges genetics, molecular biology, and education innovation.

Research Focus: Dr. Newman investigates student understanding of complex biological concepts, particularly genetics and molecular processes. Her lab develops assessment tools (e.g., Central Dogma Concept Inventory), interactive learning resources (IVVs), and frameworks to improve STEM education. Key areas include visual literacy, active learning through physical models, and addressing misconceptions in biology education.

Publications: Recent work includes studies on empathy in physics faculty, spatial visualization skills with 3D models, and the DNA Landscape framework. Her research often intersects biology and chemistry education, emphasizing textbook analysis and pedagogical tool development.

Grants & Mentorship: Secured NSF funding for postdoctoral fellowships in STEM education research and led initiatives like the HHMI Inclusive Excellence Summer Research Program. She mentors diverse student groups and promotes inclusive research mentoring through faculty learning communities.

Labs & Teams: Leads the Newman Lab, focusing on genetics education research, and co-directs CASTLE, advancing teaching excellence through collaborative projects. Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to transform undergraduate STEM education.