Jo Qian

Jo Qian, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of North Georgia (UNG), specializing in cell and molecular biology, developmental biology, neurobiology, and human diseases. She also contributes to pre-medical advising and teaches courses including Human Anatomy and Physiology, Cell Biology, and Advanced Cell Biology.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Cellular Biology, University of Georgia (2014)
  • B.S. in Life Sciences, Shanghai University (2008)

Dr. Qian’s research focuses on stem cell proliferation and differentiation using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism, particularly examining axonal transport and its role in neurodegenerative diseases. She also explores pedagogical methods, such as the use of mnemonics in enhancing retention in content-heavy courses like Human Anatomy and Physiology.

Her publications highlight investigations into G-protein signaling, Notch/Delta pathways, and EGF signaling in Drosophila germline development, alongside educational research on bioinformatics integration in undergraduate curricula. These works span molecular genetics, developmental biology, and innovative teaching strategies.

Research Techniques: Students participating in her projects engage in fly genetics, bioinformatics, molecular cloning, immunofluorescence microscopy, Western blotting, and behavior assays.