Kristine J. Hardeman

Kristine J. Hardeman serves as an Associate Teaching Professor of Biology and Botany at Connecticut College, where she has been a faculty member since 2007, contributing to both the Biology and Botany academic programs.

Her educational foundation includes:

• B.S. from the University of Iowa
• Ph.D. from the University of Oregon

Professor Hardeman's research expertise centers on Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Plant Biotechnology, with specialized focus on genetically modified crops. Her work bridges academic and industrial research, investigating pollen and embryo development in maize, conducting gene mapping in tomatoes, and developing drought-tolerant corn varieties. This interdisciplinary approach integrates molecular techniques with agricultural innovation to address food security challenges.

Her publication record from 2002-2006 reveals a cohesive trajectory in plant genetics, emphasizing maize and tomato genomics through methodologies like transposon mutagenesis, fine mapping, and evolutionary analysis. These studies collectively advance understanding of gene function, plant development mechanisms, and stress response pathways in crop species.

Within Connecticut College, she actively shapes undergraduate education through cell biology and genetics laboratory instruction, a specialized seminar on genetically modified crops, and first-year student advising. Her membership in the Association for Biology Laboratory Education underscores her commitment to pedagogical excellence in scientific education.