Leslie Kate Wright

L. Kate Wright is a Professor at the Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences within the College of Science at Rochester Institute of Technology. She holds a BS from RIT and an MS and PhD from the University of Rochester, and serves as a School Head while maintaining an active research program in biology education.

• BS, Rochester Institute of Technology
• MS, University of Rochester
• PhD, University of Rochester

As a Biology Education Researcher, Wright investigates how learners understand molecular biology and genetics through visual representations like diagrams, graphs, and gene maps. She develops research-backed classroom interventions, model-based activities, and online tools to promote learning. Her work emphasizes improving student conceptualization of complex topics such as meiosis, ATP hydrolysis, and chromosome structure.

Wright’s recent publications focus on visual literacy in molecular biology education, including analyzing student misconceptions about DNA, ATP, and chromosomes. Her research utilizes card-sorting tasks, interactive video vignettes, and 3D modeling activities to address conceptual gaps in genetics and biochemistry.

She leads the Molecular Biology Education Research (MBER) group, which designs and tests innovative teaching strategies. Her lab emphasizes active and collaborative learning, integrating physical models and digital tools to enhance biology instruction.