Lynn Hannum

Lynn Hannum serves as Associate Professor of Biology at Colby College, holding the distinguished Charles C. and Pamela W. Leighton Research Fellowship. Based in Arey 009A with contact details (207) 859-5741 and lynn.hannum@colby.edu, she teaches core courses including The Cellular Basis of Life, Immunology, and Advanced Immunology.

Her academic foundation includes a Ph.D. in Immunobiology from Yale University (1999) and a B.S. in Biology from Bates College (1987).

Dr. Hannum's research program centers on innate immune responses in zebrafish (Danio rerio), specifically investigating neutrophil activity dynamics and age-related modifications of immune function. This work bridges evolutionary immunology and gerontology, utilizing zebrafish as a genetically tractable model to uncover conserved mechanisms of innate immunity across vertebrates.

Her publication trajectory reveals a strategic evolution from foundational B cell biology studies to innovative zebrafish immunology and educational scholarship. Early work established critical insights into germinal center reactions and B cell tolerance, while recent research pioneers circadian regulation of phagocytosis and aging effects on immunity - demonstrating consistent methodological rigor across model systems.

She holds the prestigious Charles C. and Pamela W. Leighton Research Fellowship in Biology.

Dr. Hannum maintains an active undergraduate mentorship program evidenced by student co-authorships on publications, including Jessica Kaplan '07, Ryan Chrenek '08, Joel Morash '05, and Cat Ruksznis '10. Her educational scholarship extends to curriculum development and success factors in biology education, reflecting dual commitment to research and pedagogy.

While specific laboratory infrastructure details aren't provided, her zebrafish-focused research implies a specialized aquatic facility supporting live imaging and functional immune assays for cellular immunology investigations.