Jennifer Stratford

Jennifer Stratford is a Teaching Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she bridges neuroscience research with innovative medical education. Her work focuses on transforming embryology and anatomy instruction through cutting-edge technological solutions.

Her educational background includes:

• PhD in Neuroscience from Florida State University (2008)

Dr. Stratford's research spans two dynamic domains: neuroscience (specializing in taste physiology and brainstem activation mechanisms) and medical education innovation. She pioneers the use of 3D printing, virtual reality, and mobile applications to overcome spatial learning challenges in embryology. Her projects include interactive embryonic heart models, gut tube simulations, and hand-drawn video tutorials that revolutionize anatomy education. Additionally, she investigates gender dynamics in digital learning, exposing biases in student evaluations based on instructor gender, age, and accent.

Analysis of her publication trajectory reveals a strategic pivot from foundational taste physiology research (2005-2017) to educational technology development (2018-2022). Her recent work demonstrates how 3D/4D models significantly enhance spatial understanding of embryonic development while addressing systemic biases in digital education platforms. This dual focus creates unique synergy between basic neuroscience and pedagogical innovation.

No major scientific awards were documented in the provided materials.

Dr. Stratford's extensive publication record in medical education suggests active mentorship of students in educational technology development and assessment. While specific grant details aren't provided, her research methodology indicates substantial funding for prototyping 3D models, conducting controlled classroom studies, and developing mobile applications for medical curricula.

Her work operates at the intersection of neuroscience and medical education within the Psychology and Neuroscience department, likely involving collaborations with anatomy faculty and educational technologists to implement her models in gross anatomy laboratories and medical curricula.